January 16

Jerry M. Linenger is a multi-disciplined American astronaut, physician, and former U.S. Navy captain. He flew on the Space Shuttle Atlantis and spent 132 days aboard Russia's Mir space station in 1997. During his mission, Linenger conducted scientific experiments in microgravity and studied the effects of long-duration spaceflight. He holds an M.D. and a Ph.D. in physiology, applying his medical expertise to aerospace medicine. After leaving NASA, he lectured on space exploration and contributed to research in life sciences. His experiences helped advance international cooperation in space and expand human understanding of long-term missions.

Born in Korkino, Russia, Anatoli Boukreev joined the Soviet national mountaineering team as a teenager and quickly gained recognition for his technical skill at altitude. He completed multiple 8,000-meter peaks, including Cho Oyu, Shishapangma, and K2, often pursuing climbs without supplemental oxygen. In 1996, Boukreev’s actions during the Everest disaster saved several lives, demonstrating exceptional endurance and rescue abilities. His experiences were detailed in his memoir 'The Climb,' which offered insight into high-altitude decision-making. Boukreev’s climbing philosophy emphasized speed and self-reliance, influencing modern alpine-style expeditions. Tragically, he disappeared on Annapurna in 1997, cementing his legacy as both a daring adventurer and a skilled mountaineer.