The Unsung Hero of Apollo 11: The Remarkable Journey of Michael Collins

Michael Collins, born in 1930 in Rome, Italy, had a childhood shaped by both a global perspective and a strong foundation in military values. Raised in a family with a U.S. Army general as his father, Collins adopted a sense of discipline and adventure early on. His early years were marked by a blend of international exposure and a profound interest in aviation and space, influenced by the prevalent space race of the time.

This unique combination set the stage for Collins's later career as an astronaut and his notable contributions to space exploration.

After graduating from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Collins embarked on a career in the U.S. Air Force. His extensive experience as a pilot and test pilot earned him a spot in NASA's astronaut program in 1963.

(Wikipedia Contributors)

His first venture into space was aboard Gemini 10 in 1966, a mission where he conducted spacewalks, showcasing his exceptional skills and laying the groundwork for his pivotal role in future missions.

However, it was his role as the Command Module Pilot for Apollo 11 in 1969 that defined Collins's place in history. While Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong descended to the lunar surface, Collins orbited the moon alone in the Command Module. His responsibilities included piloting the module, ensuring a safe rendezvous with the lunar module upon its return, and capturing essential images of Earth from space. Although he did not set foot on the moon, Collins played a critical and often downplayed role in the success of the Apollo 11 mission (therefore dubbed “the forgotten astronaut”).

(National Geographic)

Post-Apollo 11, Collins continued to contribute to space exploration in various capacities. He served as the Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs and later became the director of the National Air and Space Museum at the Smithsonian Institution.

Collins's memoir, "Carrying the Fire," provided an insightful look into his experiences as an astronaut, adding a personal touch to the historical narrative of space exploration. Known for his pragmatic approach and dedication to the advancement of human knowledge, Collins advocated for continued space exploration and international collaboration in the field.

(Roger Launius's Blog)

His legacy is not only marked by his role in Apollo 11 but also by his commitment to expanding humanity's reach into the cosmos. In his later years, Collins maintained a strong interest in space and technology, leaving a lasting impact on the aerospace community. He led a career that would contribute significantly to the history of space exploration.