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Charles Duke

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description Charles Duke Overview

Charles Duke is a former United States Air Force officer and NASA astronaut who served as the lunar module pilot for the Apollo 16 mission in April 1972. During this mission, he became the tenth person to walk on the Moon and, at age 36, remains the youngest person to do so. Prior to his lunar flight, Duke served as the Capsule Communicator (CapCom) for Apollo 11, relaying the first words from the lunar surface. He spent over 11 days in space and over 20 hours exploring the Descartes Highlands.

help Charles Duke FAQ

What was Charles Duke's role on Apollo 16?

Charles Duke served as Apollo 16's lunar module pilot and landed with commander John Young in April 1972. They explored the Descartes Highlands while Ken Mattingly remained in lunar orbit.

Why is Charles Duke the youngest person to walk on the Moon?

Duke was 36 years old when he stepped onto the lunar surface during Apollo 16. No later Moon walker was younger, so he still holds that distinction.

Did Charles Duke leave a family photograph on the Moon?

Yes. Duke left a photograph of himself, his wife Dorothy, and their two sons on the lunar surface, along with a message identifying the family.

What connection did Charles Duke have to Apollo 11?

Duke served as a capsule communicator during Apollo 11's landing. His voice can be heard responding from Mission Control after Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin reported that the Eagle had landed.