November 14

Edward Higgins White II (1930–1967) was an American Air Force pilot selected as one of NASA’s original second group of astronauts.\nOn June 3, 1965, during the Gemini 4 mission, he performed the first U.S. extravehicular activity (spacewalk), tethered to the spacecraft for 23 minutes.\nHis pioneering EVA demonstrated crucial techniques for future lunar missions. \nWhite was slated as Senior Pilot for Apollo 1, but tragically perished in the spacecraft cabin fire during a pre-launch test on January 27, 1967.\nHis courage and achievements in the early space program have cemented his legacy as a pioneer of human space exploration.

Fred Wallace Haise Jr. (born 1933) was selected by NASA in 1966 and trained as an astronaut after serving as an Air Force test pilot.\nHe flew aboard Apollo 13 in 1970, ready to land on the Moon, but the mission was aborted after an oxygen tank explosion.\nHaise’s calm professionalism ensured the crew’s safe return despite critical system failures.\nAfter Apollo 13, he continued work on space programs, contributing to the development of the Space Shuttle.\nIn later years, Haise worked in aerospace industries and became an advocate for space exploration and engineering education.

Born in Szklarska Poręba, Poland in 1951, Leszek Cichy is a pioneer of high-altitude climbing. In February 1980, Cichy and Krzysztof Wielicki achieved the first winter ascent of Mount Everest, a feat long considered impossible. He took part in numerous Himalayan expeditions and contributed to advances in winter mountaineering techniques. Cichy has received Poland's highest awards for his achievements and authored several books on his experiences. His dedication and courage continue to inspire climbers around the world.