Ed Dwight

Edward Joseph Dwight Jr. is an American sculptor, author, retired test pilot, and astronaut. Enlisting in the U.S. Air Force in 1953, he earned a commission as a lieutenant in 1955. In 1961, at the direction of President John F. Kennedy, Dwight became the first African American to enter the Air Force training program from which NASA selected astronauts.

American Experience · S31, E3

A Place Beyond The Sky

Tracking the early years of the space race, beginning in 1957, as the U.S. struggles to catch up with the Soviet Union.
American Experience · S31, E5

Magnificent Desolation

An exploration of the Space Age, looking at the scientific innovation, political calculation and media spectacle that were involved, through the use of previously lost archival material.
American Experience · S31, E4

Earthrise

Exploring four dangerous years in the history of the space race, from 1964-1968, including the Apollo 1 and Apollo 8 missions.

Ed Dwight

Guest Appearances