Retired NASA astronaut Joe Engle passes away at 91

He piloted the X-15 and space shuttle

Retired NASA astronaut and US Air Force Major General Joe Engle, a distinguished pioneer in aerospace exploration, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2024, at his home in Houston, Texas, surrounded by his family. He was 91.

Engle’s illustrious career spanned decades and was marked by numerous milestones, earning him a place in history as a trailblazer in military aviation and space exploration.

Notably, he holds the unique distinction of being the only astronaut to pilot both the X-15 aircraft and the space shuttle.

Born in Dickinson County, Kansas, Engle graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering in 1955. He began his military career through the Air Force Reserve Officers Training Course, earning his pilot wings in 1958 and logging over 14,000 flight hours in over 180 aircraft types.

Engle’s journey into space began when he became an astronaut at 32. He is distinguished as the youngest pilot to qualify as an astronaut while flying the X-15 for the US Air Force.

Selected as a NASA astronaut candidate in 1966, Engle was the only member already actively engaged in spaceflight operations. He was also the last surviving pilot from the X-15 programme.

“A natural pilot, Gen. Joe Engle helped humanity’s dreams take flight – in the X-15 program, the Apollo Programme, and as one of the first commanders in the Space Shuttle Program,” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson in tribute.

“His contributions to space exploration are immeasurable. We will miss him dearly.”

Apollo programme

During his tenure with NASA, Engle played pivotal roles in the Apollo programme, serving as backup lunar module pilot for Apollo 14.

In 1977, he commanded the space shuttle Enterprise for approach and landing tests, demonstrating critical capabilities for subsequent missions. His leadership continued with the second flight of the space shuttle Columbia in November 1981, where he notably became the first pilot to fly an aerospace vehicle from Mach 25 to landing manually.

Engle’s final mission as a commander came aboard the space shuttle Discovery in August 1985, during which the crew conducted complex satellite deployments and repairs, showcasing his exceptional skill and leadership under challenging conditions.

“Joe’s accomplishments and legacy of perseverance will continue to inspire and impact generations of explorers for years to come,” stated Vanessa Wyche, centre director of NASA Johnson Space Centre, reflecting on Engle’s enduring influence in space exploration.

Engle’s accolades include the NASA Distinguished Service Medal and Space Flight Medal and numerous prestigious aviation awards, such as the Collier Trophy and the Harmon International Aviation Trophy. In 1992, he was inducted into the Aerospace Walk of Honor for outstanding contributions to aerospace science and technology.

“Joe Henry was a loving husband, father, and grandfather,” said his wife, Jeanie Engle.

“His passing leaves a tremendous loss in our hearts, but we find comfort in knowing he lived a fulfilled life as a proud American, US Air Force pilot, astronaut, and Kansas Jayhawk.”

Engle’s remarkable career advanced the frontiers of human spaceflight and inspired admiration and respect worldwide for his dedication, courage, and pioneering spirit. His legacy will forever be cherished in the annals of space exploration history.

Featured image: Portrait of retired NASA astronaut Joe Engle wearing a flight suit in front of an X-15 fighter circa 1963. Credit: NASA