In a historic moment that has captured global attention, Ed Dwight, the United States’ first Black astronaut candidate, has finally made his journey to space — at the remarkable age of 90. This achievement makes him the oldest person ever to fly to space, surpassing the record previously held by actor William Shatner, who flew at age 90 in 2021.
Dwight’s flight was part of a Blue Origin suborbital mission, launched from the company’s West Texas facility. The short but symbolic voyage carried six passengers beyond the Kármán line, the internationally recognized boundary of space, allowing them to experience a few minutes of weightlessness before returning safely to Earth.
“It was an unbelievable experience — something I’ve dreamed about for six decades,” Dwight said after the flight. “It’s never too late to fulfill a dream.”
Ed Dwight was originally selected in 1961 as part of the U.S. Air Force’s astronaut training program, during the height of the space race. Despite completing advanced training and receiving top recommendations, he was not chosen for NASA’s astronaut corps — a decision that sparked widespread discussion about racial inequality in the early space program.
After leaving the Air Force, Dwight went on to become a renowned sculptor, dedicating his art to African American history and culture. His long-awaited journey to space stands as both a personal triumph and a powerful symbol of perseverance and representation.
“Ed Dwight’s flight is not just about going to space,” said a Blue Origin spokesperson. “It’s about completing a chapter of history that began more than 60 years ago.”
With this mission, Dwight not only fulfills his lifelong dream but also cements his place in history — as a pioneer who broke barriers on Earth and, finally, beyond it.
