Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Today in History: John Glenn, 77, Returns to Space Aboard Discovery

10/29/2025

42 7

Summary

Story summary

On October 29, 1998, former astronaut John Glenn, at 77, returned to space aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery during the STS-95 mission. This historic flight made him the oldest person to orbit Earth. The mission also marked significant advancements, including the first live coast-to-coast HDTV broadcast in the U.S. and the debut of Spain's first astronaut, Pedro Duque.

1 of 1

Story summary

On October 29, 1998, former astronaut John Glenn, at 77, returned to space aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery during the STS-95 mission. This historic flight made him the oldest person to orbit Earth. The mission also marked significant advancements, including the first live coast-to-coast HDTV broadcast in the U.S. and the debut of Spain's first astronaut, Pedro Duque.