About
Eugene Andrew Cernan was an American astronaut, naval aviator, electrical engineer, aeronautical engineer, and fighter pilot. He is best known as the last person to have walked on the Moon. Cernan commanded the Apollo 17 mission in December 1972, marking the end of the Apollo program. His career represents the pinnacle of space exploration during the 20th century.
Career Timeline
Joins NASA Astronaut Corps
Selected as an astronaut, beginning his journey into space exploration.
Gemini 9A Flight
His first spaceflight aboard Gemini 9A, experiencing spacewalk challenges.
Apollo 10 Mission
Flies to the Moon as lunar module pilot on Apollo 10.
Apollo 17 Commander
Commands Apollo 17, the final lunar landing mission.
Retires From NASA
Leaves NASA, concluding his astronaut career.
Death at Age 82
Eugene Cernan passes away, remembered as the last man on the Moon.
Legacy of Lunar Exploration
Remembered as the last person to walk on the Moon, and an advocate for space exploration.
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Last updated: February 25, 2026