- Name: Buzz Aldrin
- Current Age: 91
- Occupation(s): Astronaut, Engineer, Author
- Date of Birth: January 20, 1930
- Place of Birth: Glen Ridge, New Jersey, USA
- Nationality: American
- Parents: Edwin Eugene Aldrin Sr., Marion Moon
- Siblings: 1 sister, Fay Ann Aldrin
- Spouse: Lois Driggs Cannon (m. 1988; div. 2012), Beverly Van Zile (m. 1975; div. 1978), Joan Archer (m. 1954; div. 1974)
- Children: 3 children – James, Janice, Andrew
- Net Worth: Estimated at $12 million (2024)
- Source of Wealth: Astronaut career, book sales, public appearances
- Ventures: Founder of ShareSpace Foundation
- Ethnicity: Caucasian
- Height: 5’10" (178 cm)
- Weight: 160 lbs (73 kg)
- Notable Works: Second person to walk on the moon during Apollo 11 mission
Early Life and Education:
Born as Edwin Eugene Aldrin Jr., Buzz Aldrin grew up in Montclair, New Jersey. His father, Edwin Sr., was an aviation pioneer, which sparked Buzz’s interest in space exploration from a young age. Aldrin attended the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, graduating third in his class with a degree in mechanical engineering. He later earned a Ph.D. in astronautics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
Career Beginning:
Aldrin joined the United States Air Force and flew combat missions during the Korean War. In 1963, he was selected as an astronaut by NASA, beginning his journey towards becoming one of the most renowned figures in space exploration.
Breakthrough and Career Achievements:
Apollo 11 Mission:
Buzz Aldrin made history on July 20, 1969, when he followed Neil Armstrong onto the surface of the moon during the Apollo 11 mission. His iconic words, "Magnificent desolation," captured the awe and wonder of that momentous occasion. Aldrin’s contributions to space exploration have left an indelible mark on human history.
Post-Apollo 11:
After his historic moonwalk, Aldrin continued to work at NASA and later served as a space advocate, promoting the importance of space exploration and colonization. He authored several books, including his memoir "Magnificent Desolation," which provided insights into his experiences as an astronaut.
Financial Insights:
Buzz Aldrin’s net worth is estimated to be around $12 million as of 2024. His primary sources of income include earnings from his astronaut career, book sales, and public appearances. Aldrin’s status as the second man to walk on the moon has made him a sought-after figure in the space community, leading to various speaking engagements and endorsements.
Aldrin’s investments in space-related ventures, including his foundation ShareSpace, have also contributed to his wealth. His entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to advancing space exploration have solidified his financial standing in the industry.
Conclusion:
Buzz Aldrin’s legacy as a pioneering astronaut and advocate for space exploration continues to inspire generations. His remarkable journey from the moon’s surface to entrepreneurial endeavors showcases his multifaceted talents and unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of human achievement. As a living legend of space exploration, Aldrin’s contributions to science and society will be remembered for years to come.