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Today in History: NASA reveals Next Nine astronauts for moon landing

9/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On September 17, 1962, NASA announced the selection of Astronaut Group 2, known as the "Next Nine." This group was formed to support Project Apollo's goal of landing a man on the Moon by the decade's end. The selection emphasized candidates with advanced engineering degrees and test pilot experience, expanding upon the original Mercury Seven.

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Story summary

On September 17, 1962, NASA announced the selection of Astronaut Group 2, known as the "Next Nine." This group was formed to support Project Apollo's goal of landing a man on the Moon by the decade's end. The selection emphasized candidates with advanced engineering degrees and test pilot experience, expanding upon the original Mercury Seven.