Discover Gene Cernan net worth in 2024, early life, and career highlights. Learn about his financial journey and legacy on PennBookCenter.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Eugene Andrew Cernan |
| Popular Name | Gene Cernan |
| Gender | Male |
| Birth Date | March 14, 1934 |
| Age | 82 (at the time of death) |
| Parents | Andrew George Cernan, Rose Cernan (née Cihlar) |
| Siblings | Dolores Ann |
| Birthplace | Bellwood, Illinois, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Slovak, Czech |
| Education | Purdue University, Naval Postgraduate School |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Sexual Orientation | Straight |
| Wife/Spouse | Jan Nanna(m 1987 – 2017), Jan Nanna Cernan(m 1987 – 2017), Barbara Jean Atchley(m 1961 – 1981) |
| Children | Teresa Dawn Cernan |
| Dating | N/A |
| Net Worth | $5 million |
| Source of Wealth | NASA, Military, Private Sector |
| Height | 1.83 m |
What is the Net Worth Of Gene Cernan in 2024?
Gene Cernan net worth in 2024 is estimated at $5 million. Compared to others in related fields, his financial standing reflects his significant contributions to space exploration.
- Neil Armstrong
- Buzz Aldrin
- John Young
- NASA
- Purdue University
For more information on other wealthy authors, visit the richest authors page.
Gene Cernan Salary and Finance Overview
Early Life and Education
Gene Cernan was born in Bellwood, Illinois, in 1934. His parents, Andrew George Cernan and Rose Cernan (née Cihlar), had Slovak and Czech ancestry. Growing up in Illinois, he attended McKinley Elementary School and graduated from Proviso Township High School in Maywood in 1952.
He pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering at Purdue University. During his time at Purdue, he was an active member of several fraternities and honor societies, demonstrating early leadership qualities.
He later attended the Naval Postgraduate School, earning a Master of Science in aeronautical engineering.
Military and Naval Career
After completing his education, he joined the U.S. Navy, where he trained as a pilot. He flew various jets, including the FJ-4 Fury and A-4 Skyhawk, and accumulated over 5,000 hours of flight time.
His military career included at least 200 successful carrier landings, showcasing his skill and dedication.
NASA Career and Space Missions
His career at NASA began in October 1963 when he was selected as part of the third group of astronauts. His first space mission was as the pilot of Gemini 9A in June 1966, where he performed America’s second spacewalk. This mission was crucial for testing space rendezvous procedures.
In May 1969, he served as the Lunar Module Pilot for Apollo 10, which brought him within 8.5 nautical miles of the Moon’s surface. This mission was a dress rehearsal for the historic Apollo 11 landing.
Finally, in December 1972, he commanded Apollo 17, the last Apollo mission to the Moon. He became the 11th and last person to walk on the lunar surface.
Awards and Recognitions
His achievements earned him numerous accolades. He was inducted into the International Space Hall of Fame and the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame. These honors reflect his contributions to space exploration and his enduring legacy.
Post-NASA Career
After retiring from NASA in 1976, he transitioned to the private sector. He became the Executive Vice President of Coral Petroleum Inc. and later founded The Cernan Corporation in 1981. He also contributed to media coverage of space missions, providing insights and analysis for ABC during the early Space Shuttle launches.
His memoir, The Last Man on the Moon, published in 1999, offers a detailed account of his experiences. He also appeared in several documentaries, further cementing his status as a space exploration icon.
Personal Life and Legacy
His personal life included two marriages. He first married Barbara Jean Atchley, with whom he had a daughter named Tracy. After their divorce, he married Janis Ellen Nanna Cernan, gaining two step-daughters. His legacy lives on through his contributions to space exploration and his inspirational story.
Gene Cernan in Popular Culture
His influence extends into popular culture. He was featured in the HBO miniseries From the Earth to the Moon and the Discovery Channel’s documentary series When We Left Earth. His story inspired music, including Daft Punk’s Contact and Public Service Broadcasting’s Tomorrow.
FAQs about Gene Cernan
What were Gene Cernan’s major space missions?
He participated in three major space missions: Gemini 9A, Apollo 10, and Apollo 17. These missions were pivotal in advancing space exploration.
What awards did he receive?
He was inducted into the International Space Hall of Fame and the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame. He received numerous other accolades for his contributions to space exploration.
What did Gene Cernan do after retiring from NASA?
After retiring from NASA, Gene worked in the private sector, including roles at Coral Petroleum Inc. and his own company, The Cernan Corporation. He also contributed to media coverage of space missions.
How did his early life influence his career?
Gene’s early life in Illinois and his education at Purdue University and the Naval Postgraduate School provided a strong foundation for his career in the Navy and NASA.
What is his legacy in space exploration?
Gene Cernan is remembered as the last man to walk on the Moon and for his significant contributions to the Apollo and Gemini missions. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of astronauts.
Did he write any books?
Yes, Gene Cernan co-authored his memoir, The Last Man on the Moon, which details his experiences in space exploration and his career.
What was his role in the Apollo 17 mission?
He commanded the Apollo 17 mission, the last Apollo mission to the Moon. He became the last person to walk on the lunar surface during this mission.
How did Gene Cernan contribute to popular culture?
Gene’s story has been featured in documentaries, TV series, and music. He has been portrayed in various media and his voice was used in music tracks.
What was Gene Cernan’s impact on the space program?
He played a crucial role in advancing the space program through his participation in key missions and his contributions to NASA’s goals.
How did his military service contribute to his career?
Gene’s military service provided him with the skills and discipline necessary for his role as a NASA astronaut. His extensive flight experience was invaluable for his space missions.
Conclusion
Gene Cernan’s legacy as an astronaut and his financial journey are fascinating aspects of his life. For more engaging content, leave comments, share, or explore more on pennbookcenter.com.
