# Fred Haise

> American astronaut

**Wikidata**: [Q318965](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q318965)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fred_Haise)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/fred-haise

## Summary
Fred Haise is an American astronaut and former military officer best known for his role as the lunar module pilot on the Apollo 13 mission, which experienced a critical in-flight failure but returned safely to Earth. He was born on November 14, 1933, in the United States and served as a key figure in NASA's space exploration efforts during the 20th century.

## Biography
- Born: November 14, 1933, in Biloxi, Mississippi
- Nationality: United States
- Education: Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering from the University of Oklahoma; studied at Harvard Business School
- Known for: Service as lunar module pilot on Apollo 13 and contributions to U.S. aerospace and aviation
- Employer(s): National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School
- Field(s): Aerospace engineering, astronautics, military aviation

## Contributions
Fred Haise made significant contributions to aerospace and spaceflight, particularly through his role in the Apollo program. As lunar module pilot on Apollo 13, he played a critical part in the mission's safe return after an oxygen tank explosion. His technical expertise and composure under pressure were instrumental in managing the crisis. Haise also contributed to the development of flight systems and astronaut training protocols at NASA, and his work extended into the post-Apollo era, where he supported the advancement of reusable spacecraft technologies.

## FAQs
### Where was Fred Haise born?
Fred Haise was born on November 14, 1933, in Biloxi, Mississippi.

### What is Fred Haise most famous for?
Fred Haise is most famous for being the lunar module pilot on the Apollo 13 mission, which experienced a critical failure en route to the Moon but returned safely to Earth.

### What education did Fred Haise receive?
Fred Haise earned a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering from the University of Oklahoma and later studied at Harvard Business School.

### What awards has Fred Haise received?
Fred Haise received several honors, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, NASA Distinguished Service Medal, and induction into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame.

### What organizations was Fred Haise affiliated with?
Fred Haise was affiliated with NASA, the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School, and the National Aviation Hall of Fame. He was part of NASA Astronaut Group 5.

## Why They Matter
Fred Haise's contributions to space exploration and aviation have left a lasting legacy. His role in the Apollo 13 mission demonstrated the importance of astronaut training, adaptability, and crisis management. His work helped shape NASA's approach to mission safety and inspired future generations of astronauts and engineers. Without Haise’s efforts, the successful return of Apollo 13 might not have been possible, and the mission remains a defining moment in the history of human spaceflight.

## Notable For
- Lunar module pilot on Apollo 13, one of NASA's most critical missions
- Induction into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame
- Recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom
- Recipient of the NASA Distinguished Service Medal
- Graduate of the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School
- Contributions to the development of reusable spacecraft technologies
- Role in advancing astronaut training and flight safety protocols

## Body
### Early Life and Education
Fred Wallace Haise Jr. was born on November 14, 1933, in Biloxi, Mississippi. He developed an early interest in aviation and pursued a degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the University of Oklahoma. Haise later expanded his academic background by attending Harvard Business School, enhancing his expertise in both technical and managerial aspects of aerospace operations.

### Military and Test Pilot Career
Before joining NASA, Fred Haise served as a military officer and test pilot. He was associated with the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School, where he honed his skills in flight testing and evaluation. His military background laid the foundation for his later work in the U.S. space program, where his expertise in flight systems and engineering proved invaluable.

### NASA Career and Apollo 13
Fred Haise joined NASA as part of Astronaut Group 5. He became one of the key figures in the Apollo program, serving as the lunar module pilot for the Apollo 13 mission. The mission, launched in April 1970, suffered a critical failure when an oxygen tank exploded, threatening the lives of the crew. Haise, along with his colleagues Jim Lovell and Jack Swigert, worked under extreme conditions to return safely to Earth. His technical knowledge and calm demeanor were crucial in managing the crisis.

### Contributions to Aerospace and Flight Safety
Beyond his role on Apollo 13, Haise contributed to the development of flight safety protocols and astronaut training. He was involved in the advancement of reusable spacecraft technologies and worked on improving mission design and emergency response procedures. His efforts helped shape future missions and influenced the direction of NASA's human spaceflight programs.

### Awards and Recognition
Fred Haise received numerous honors for his contributions to space exploration. These include:
- The Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the United States
- The NASA Distinguished Service Medal
- Induction into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame
- Recognition from the National Aviation Hall of Fame
- The Medal "For Merit in Space Exploration" from the Russian Federation

### Legacy and Influence
Fred Haise's legacy extends beyond his role in Apollo 13. His work in aerospace engineering, astronaut training, and flight safety continues to influence modern space exploration. His story of resilience and problem-solving during a life-threatening crisis remains a symbol of human ingenuity and determination. Haise's contributions have inspired countless individuals in the fields of aviation, engineering, and space science.

## References

1. [Source](http://www.nasa.gov/centers/dryden/news/Biographies/Pilots/haise.html)
2. [Source](https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/R/R47639)
3. [Source](https://searchpub.nssc.nasa.gov/servlet/sm.web.Fetch/Agency_Awards_Historical_Recipient_List.pdf?rhid=1000&did=2120817&type=released)
4. [Source](https://www.nmspacemuseum.org/inductee/fred-w-haise-jr/)
5. [Space Hall Inducts 14 Apollo Program Astronauts. El Paso Times. 1983](https://www.newspapers.com/clip/29964158/el_paso_times/)
6. [Source](http://www.spacefacts.de/english/e_first.htm)
7. Internet Speculative Fiction Database
8. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
9. The Movie Database
10. Virtual International Authority File