“I’m Really Proud”: Ed Dwight Watches His Moon Dream Come Alive Through Victor Glover

In the 1960s, Ed Dwight stood on the edge of history. He trained to become the first Black astronaut in the United States. He had the talent and discipline. But he never got the chance to go to space. Decades later, his dream is finally taking shape through someone he once inspired.

That person is Victor Glover. The 49-year-old is preparing for the groundbreaking Artemis 2 mission. He is set to become the first Black person to travel to the Moon. For Dwight, now 92, the moment is emotional. “I’m really living my old 92 years through Victor; I’m really proud,” he said.

Their story began many years ago. Dwight met Glover as a teenager during a program aimed at guiding young Black pilots. At the time, it was just mentorship. Nothing more. But today, it means everything. “Never in a thousand years did I ever think that Victor would take it to heart and take it to the Moon,” Dwight said, reflecting on the journey.

Dwight’s own path was filled with challenges. During the era of John F. Kennedy, he was selected for astronaut training. The move was historic, but it sparked resistance. Many doubted him openly. “This guy will last about six weeks,” critics said. Dwight refused to back down. “I ended up ranked higher in the class than 10 white guys,” he recalled.

His dream ended in 1963 after Kennedy’s assassination. He was told the country was not ready for a Black astronaut. Years later, progress came slowly. In 1983, Guion Bluford became the first African American in space. It was a major step, but it came long after Dwight’s chance had passed.

In 2024, Dwight finally experienced space through a flight with Blue Origin. It was a personal victory. But Glover’s mission means more. It represents a full-circle moment. A dream once denied is now being realized. And this time, history is ready.