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Scott Carpenter

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description Scott Carpenter Overview

Malcolm Scott Carpenter was an American naval aviator, test pilot, astronaut, and aquanaut selected in 1959 as one of NASA's original seven Mercury astronauts. On 24 May 1962, he piloted Aurora 7 on the United States' second crewed orbital flight, completing three Earth orbits before splashing down beyond the planned recovery area. He later participated in the U.S. Navy's SEALAB program, living and working in an underwater habitat as part of research into extended human activity beneath the sea.

help Scott Carpenter FAQ

Which Mercury spacecraft did Scott Carpenter fly into space?

On 24 May 1962, Scott Carpenter piloted the Aurora 7 spacecraft into orbit. This mission marked the United States' second crewed orbital flight, following John Glenn's historic Friendship 7 flight.

Was Scott Carpenter an aquanaut as well as an astronaut?

Yes, in addition to being a naval aviator and one of NASA's original seven Mercury astronauts, he was an aquanaut. He participated in the Navy's SEALAB program, spending time living and working in an underwater habitat.

How many times did Scott Carpenter orbit the Earth?

During his Aurora 7 mission, Scott Carpenter completed three orbits of the Earth before splashing down in the Atlantic Ocean. The flight lasted nearly five hours and provided valuable scientific data.

Did Scott Carpenter face any issues during his Aurora 7 reentry?

Yes, his spacecraft overshot the intended landing area by about 250 miles due to a misaligned spacecraft attitude and late retro-rocket firing. He was eventually recovered safely by the USS Intrepid after a tense search.