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Oct 2024
40m 55s

The US’s first black astronaut trainee r...

Bbc World Service
About this episode

In May 2024, 90-year-old Ed Dwight Jr. from Kansas City, Missouri travelled to the edge of space – he was an honoured guest in the Blue Origin rocket. His trip was 60 years overdue. Ed had been chosen by President John F Kennedy to be the first African-American astronaut at a time when racism was rife and segregation a reality. But JFK’s plans for Ed were scuppered – and Ed had to pick himself up and build a whole new career.

Please be aware that this episode contains outdated racial language that may offend.

Presenter: Jo Fidgen

Get in touch: liveslessordinary@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp: 0044 330 678 2784

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