James Irwin spent 295 hours in space as the lunar module pilot for Apollo 15, the fourth human lunar landing. During this mission, which occurred between July 26 and August 7, 1971, he became the eighth person to walk on the lunar surface, spending over 18 hours outside the module conducting geological research.
Military and Engineering Foundations
Born in Pittsburgh in 1930, Irwin pursued an extensive technical education after graduating from East High School in Salt Lake City. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in naval science from the United States Naval Academy in 1951, followed by Master of Science degrees in aeronautical and instrumentation engineering from the University of Michigan in 1957. His military career included graduation from the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School in 1961 and the Aerospace Research Pilot School in 1963. Before joining the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, he served as a developmental test pilot for the Lockheed YF-12 and held the position of chief of the Advanced Requirements Branch at Headquarters Air Defense Command. During his military tenure, he accumulated over 7,015 flying hours.
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Selected as a NASA astronaut in 1966, Irwin contributed to the Apollo program through support roles for Apollo 10 and as a backup lunar module pilot for Apollo 12. During the Apollo 15 mission, he and commander David R. Scott explored the Hadley-Apennine region. Their work included operating the Lunar Roving Vehicle, marking Irwin as the first automobile passenger on the Moon. The crew conducted intensive geological fieldwork, resulting in the discovery of the Genesis Rock. Upon their return, medical staff identified symptoms of bigeminy in Irwin's heart, though he recovered under observation in the spacecraft's high-oxygen environment.
Later Life and Legacy
Following his NASA career, Irwin pursued work as a preacher and musician. He had five children and was married to Mary Ellen Monroe from 1959 until his death. Irwin passed away in Glenwood Springs in 1991 at the age of 61 and was buried at Arlington National Cemetery. His contributions to space exploration were formally recognized through the NASA Distinguished Service Medal and the United Nations Peace Medal in 1971. He was later inducted into the International Space Hall of Fame in 1983 and holds a place in the United States Astronaut Hall of Fame.
Fast facts
- Born: 1930, Pittsburgh
- Died: 1991, Glenwood Springs
- Lunar Landing: Apollo 15, 1971
- Rank: Colonel
- Burial: Arlington National Cemetery
- Education: University of Michigan, U.S. Naval Academy
- Lunar Surface Time: 18 hours, 35 minutes
Questions readers ask
What mission did James Irwin fly?
He served as the lunar module pilot for the Apollo 15 mission in 1971.
Where is James Irwin buried?
He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
Did James Irwin drive on the Moon?
He was the first automobile passenger on the Moon, riding in the Lunar Roving Vehicle driven by David R. Scott.
Achievements
- United States Astronaut Hall of Fame
- International Space Hall of Fame — 1983
- Affiliated with National Aeronautics and Space Administration
- Educated at University of Michigan, U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School and United States Naval Academy
- Worked as military officer, astronaut and aircraft pilot
