The Apollo program stands as one of humanity’s most extraordinary achievements, a testament to innovation, courage, and the relentless spirit of exploration. The individuals who embarked on these historic journeys to the Moon became living legends, their names synonymous with daring and discovery.
While the decades have passed since these monumental missions, a select group of these trailblazers remains. This comprehensive resource details the 10 Living Apollo Astronauts, covering the span from luminaries like Bill Anders to respected figures such as Tom Stafford. For each, you’ll find below essential details including their Apollo Mission(s), Mission Role, and Birth Year.
How many Apollo astronauts are still alive today?
Out of the many brave individuals who participated in the Apollo program, a specific number are still with us, carrying forward the legacy of humankind’s lunar ambitions. This list focuses exclusively on these individuals who continue to inspire.
Did all Apollo astronauts walk on the Moon?
No, not all Apollo astronauts had the opportunity to walk on the Moon. While every crewed mission that reached lunar orbit carried three astronauts, typically only two descended to the surface in the Lunar Module. The third astronaut remained in orbit aboard the Command Module, performing crucial tasks and ensuring the success of the return journey.
Living Apollo Astronauts
| Astronaut Name | Apollo Mission(s) | Mission Role | Birth Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buzz Aldrin | Apollo 11 | Lunar Module Pilot (Moonwalker) | 1930 |
| Jim Lovell | Apollo 8;Apollo 13 | Apollo 8 (Command Module Pilot); Apollo 13 (Commander) | 1928 |
| Bill Anders | Apollo 8 | Lunar Module Pilot | 1933 |
| David Scott | Apollo 9;Apollo 15 | Apollo 9 (Command Module Pilot); Apollo 15 (Commander, Moonwalker) | 1932 |
| Rusty Schweickart | Apollo 9 | Lunar Module Pilot | 1935 |
| Tom Stafford | Apollo 10 | Commander | 1930 |
| Charlie Duke | Apollo 16 | Lunar Module Pilot (Moonwalker) | 1935 |
| Ken Mattingly | Apollo 16 | Command Module Pilot | 1936 |
| Harrison Schmitt | Apollo 17 | Lunar Module Pilot (Moonwalker) | 1935 |
| Fred Haise | Apollo 13 | Lunar Module Pilot | 1933 |
Images and Descriptions
Buzz Aldrin
Second person to walk on the Moon during Apollo 11, Aldrin helped pioneer orbital rendezvous and docking techniques. After NASA he became an influential author and advocate for human exploration, promoting Mars missions, STEM education, and public interest in space history.
Jim Lovell
Veteran of Apollo 8 and commander of Apollo 13, Lovell led his crew through the famous in-flight crisis and safe return after an oxygen tank explosion. Post-NASA he authored memoirs, consulted widely, and is celebrated for calm leadership under pressure.
Bill Anders
Apollo 8 Lunar Module Pilot who helped capture the iconic Earthrise photograph and conducted critical lunar observations. He later served in government and industry, supporting environmental policy and public engagement with science and space exploration.
David Scott
Flew on Apollo 9 and commanded Apollo 15, Scott walked on the Moon and led the first extensive rover exploration. A test pilot and engineer, he later worked in aerospace development and remains a respected voice on lunar geology and exploration.
Rusty Schweickart
Apollo 9 Lunar Module Pilot who tested life-support systems and performed critical EVA evaluations. After NASA he became a leader in planetary defense, co-founding initiatives to track near‑Earth objects and advocating policies for protecting Earth from asteroid impacts.
Tom Stafford
Apollo 10 commander who led the dress rehearsal for the lunar landing, flying the Lunar Module to within miles of the surface. Later he bridged U.S.–Soviet cooperation in Apollo–Soyuz and held senior roles promoting international space collaboration.
Charlie Duke
Apollo 16 Lunar Module Pilot and one of twelve Moonwalkers, Duke was the youngest person to walk on the Moon. After NASA he pursued business, philanthropy, and frequent public speaking about exploration, faith, and the human experience of spaceflight.
Ken Mattingly
Originally grounded from Apollo 13 for health reasons, Mattingly flew as Apollo 16 Command Module Pilot and later took senior roles during the Shuttle era. He is known for technical expertise, advocacy for flight safety, and leadership in aerospace management.
Harrison Schmitt
Apollo 17 Lunar Module Pilot and the only professional geologist to walk on the Moon, Schmitt made lasting contributions to lunar science. He later served as a U.S. senator and has championed science-driven space policy and resource development on the Moon.
Fred Haise
Apollo 13 Lunar Module Pilot who nearly walked on the Moon before the mission was aborted; Haise helped save his crew during the crisis. He went on to a long aerospace career, advising on lunar development and continuing to promote crewed exploration.
