About
Scott Carpenter was an accomplished American naval officer, aviator, test pilot, aeronautical engineer, astronaut, and aquanaut. He was selected as one of the original Mercury Seven astronauts for NASA's Project Mercury in 1959, marking him as a pioneer in the U.S. space program. Carpenter achieved the distinction of being the second American to orbit the Earth, solidifying his place in history. His contributions extended beyond space travel, as he also participated in underwater exploration as an aquanaut.
Career Timeline
Mercury Seven Astronaut
Selected as one of the original Mercury Seven astronauts for NASA.
Orbits the Earth
Becomes the second American to orbit the Earth aboard Aurora 7.
Participates in SEALAB II
Participates in the SEALAB II project as an aquanaut.
Retires From the Navy
Retires from the U.S. Navy, ending his active service.
Passes Away in Denver
Passes away in Denver, Colorado, at the age of 88.
Legacy as Space Pioneer
Remembered as a pioneer in the U.S. space program and an explorer of both space and ocean frontiers.
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Last updated: February 21, 2026