About
Richard Francis Gordon Jr. was an American naval officer, aviator, test pilot, and NASA astronaut. He was among the select few who journeyed to the Moon, serving as the command module pilot of the Apollo 12 mission, orbiting the Moon 45 times. Gordon also had previous spaceflight experience as the pilot of the 1966 Gemini 11 mission. His contributions to space exploration solidified his legacy as a pioneering astronaut.
Career Timeline
Enlists in U.S. Navy
Gordon begins his military career as a naval aviator.
Gemini 11 Pilot
Gordon pilots the Gemini 11 mission, gaining spaceflight experience.
Apollo 12 Command Module Pilot
Gordon orbits the Moon 45 times during the Apollo 12 mission.
Retires From NASA
Gordon retires from NASA and enters the private sector.
Business Ventures
Gordon engages in various business ventures after his NASA career.
Death in California
Richard Gordon dies in California, leaving behind a legacy in space exploration.
Remembered as Apollo Astronaut
Gordon remains recognized as an astronaut from the Apollo program.
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Last updated: February 23, 2026