# Richard H. Truly

> American astronaut and NASA administrator (1937–2024)

**Wikidata**: [Q442233](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q442233)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_H._Truly)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/richard-h-truly

## Summary
Richard H. Truly was an American astronaut and NASA administrator, best known for his role as a pioneering figure in U.S. space exploration and aeronautics. He was one of the astronauts selected for NASA's Group 7 in 1969 and later became NASA's eighth Administrator, leading the agency during a transformative period in the 1990s.

## Biography
- Born: November 12, 1937
- Nationality: United States
- Education: Georgia Institute of Technology (B.S. in Aeronautical Engineering, 1959)
- Known for: Being a NASA astronaut, test pilot, and later NASA Administrator
- Employer(s): NASA, U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School, National Aeronautics and Space Administration
- Field(s): Aerospace engineering, astronautics, spaceflight, space exploration, naval aviation

## Contributions
Richard H. Truly made significant contributions to American space exploration and aeronautics. As an astronaut, he piloted the Space Shuttle Challenger on its maiden flight (STS-2) in 1981 and later commanded the first all-Army crew mission (STS-8) in 1983. He was instrumental in advancing NASA's human spaceflight programs and later served as NASA Administrator from 1989 to 1992, where he oversaw key transitions in the U.S. space program, including the transition from the Space Shuttle's early operational phase to its mature role in supporting the International Space Station precursor programs.

## FAQs
**What is Richard H. Truly most known for?**  
Richard H. Truly is most known for his service as a NASA astronaut and as the eighth Administrator of NASA. He piloted and later commanded Space Shuttle missions and was a key figure in shaping U.S. space policy during his tenure at NASA.

**What were Richard H. Truly's major space missions?**  
He was a crew member on two Space Shuttle missions: STS-2 (1981), the second orbital test flight of the Space Shuttle Columbia, and STS-8 (1983), which was notable for being the first night launch and landing of the shuttle program.

**What awards did Richard H. Truly receive?**  
Richard H. Truly was honored with several awards, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, NASA Exceptional Service Medal, NASA Distinguished Service Medal, and the Presidential Citizens Medal, among others.

**What educational background did Richard H. Truly have?**  
He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology in 1959.

**What organizations was Richard H. Truly affiliated with?**  
He was affiliated with NASA, the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School, and was a member of NASA Astronaut Group 7. He also worked closely with the National Academy of Engineering and other institutions within the U.S. space and defense sectors.

## Why They Matter
Richard H. Truly's contributions to American space exploration and aerospace engineering were foundational. As both an astronaut and NASA Administrator, he played a pivotal role in shaping the future of the U.S. space program. His leadership during the early 1990s helped guide NASA through critical transitions in its human spaceflight initiatives. His influence extended beyond missions, impacting policy, public engagement, and institutional direction. His legacy continues to inspire future generations in aerospace and engineering.

## Notable For
- Being a member of NASA Astronaut Group 7
- Piloting the first operational flight of the Space Shuttle (STS-2)
- Commanding the first night launch and landing mission (STS-8)
- Serving as NASA Administrator from 1989 to 1992
- Awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, NASA Exceptional Service Medal, NASA Distinguished Service Medal, and the Presidential Citizens Medal
- Inducted into the United States Astronaut Hall of Fame
- Educated at Georgia Tech in aeronautical engineering
- Trained at the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School
- Member of the National Academy of Engineering

## Body

### Early Life and Education
Richard Harrison Truly was born on November 12, 1937. He was a pioneering American figure in aerospace and space exploration. He pursued a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology, graduating in 1959. This educational foundation laid the groundwork for his career in aviation and spaceflight.

### Career in Aviation and the Military
Before joining NASA, Truly was part of the U.S. Air Force, where he trained as a test pilot. He was affiliated with the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School, a prestigious institution that trained military aviators for advanced flight roles. His experience in military aviation, particularly in naval aviation, was instrumental in his selection as an astronaut.

### Selection as an Astronaut
Truly was selected as part of NASA Astronaut Group 7 in 1969, a group known for its contributions to early Space Shuttle missions. As a member of this group, he was part of the first generation of astronauts to fly the newly developed Space Shuttle.

### Space Shuttle Missions
Richard H. Truly piloted the second orbital test flight of the Space Shuttle, STS-2, in 1981. This was a landmark mission, marking the first time the Space Shuttle Columbia was flown in a fully operational capacity. He later commanded STS-8 in 1983, notable for being the first mission to launch and land at night, demonstrating the Shuttle’s increasing operational flexibility.

### NASA Administrator
From 1989 to 1992, Truly served as the eighth Administrator of NASA. In this role, he oversaw the agency during a time of major developments in space exploration, including the early planning stages of what would become the International Space Station. His leadership was critical in guiding NASA through the end of the Space Shuttle's initial operational phase and into a new era of international cooperation in space.

### Contributions to Engineering and Space Policy
As an engineer and astronaut, Truly was deeply involved in advancing spaceflight technologies and policy. His work helped shape the U.S. space program’s direction, especially in human space exploration. His efforts were recognized with several awards, including the NASA Distinguished Service Medal and the Presidential Citizens Medal.

### Awards and Recognition
Richard H. Truly received numerous honors, including:
- The Distinguished Flying Cross
- NASA Exceptional Service Medal
- NASA Distinguished Service Medal
- Induction into the United States Astronaut Hall of Fame
These awards underscored his contributions to aviation, spaceflight, and public service.

### Affiliations and Memberships
Truly was a member of several prestigious institutions:
- National Academy of Engineering
- U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School
- NASA Astronaut Group 7
- Georgia Institute of Technology (alumnus)
His memberships and affiliations reflect his deep ties to both military and civilian sectors of American aerospace.

### Legacy
Richard H. Truly passed away on February 27, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in space exploration and engineering. His work influenced generations of astronauts and engineers, and his leadership at NASA helped set the stage for future international space cooperation. His life's work continues to be a model for public service and innovation in space technology.

### Publications and Influence
While specific publications are not detailed in the source, Truly's influence extended through his leadership roles, mission participation, and policy-shaping efforts. He was a key figure in the advancement of astronautics and space exploration, contributing to the United States' status as a leader in space.

### Personal and Professional Impact
Richard H. Truly's career bridged the gap between military aviation and civilian space exploration. His work influenced the development of spaceflight standards and practices that continue to be used today. His story is a testament to the impact of dedicated individuals in shaping the future of space travel and engineering.

## References

1. Czech National Authority Database
2. [Agency Awards Historical Recipient List. nasa.gov](https://searchpub.nssc.nasa.gov/servlet/sm.web.Fetch/Agency_Awards_Historical_Recipient_List.pdf?rhid=1000&did=2120817&type=released)
3. [Astronauts and Cosmonauts (sorted by "First mission"). Spacefacts](http://www.spacefacts.de/english/e_first.htm)
4. [Richard Truly, shuttle astronaut and NASA administrator, dies at 86](http://www.collectspace.com/news/news-022924a-astronaut-richard-truly-nasa-adminstrator-obituary.html)
5. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
6. BabelNet
7. [Truly Richard Harrison "Dick". Spacefacts](http://www.spacefacts.de/bios/astronauts/english/truly_richard.htm)