Date of Birth: August 17, 1933
Zodiac Sign: Leo
Biography
Eugene Francis “Gene” Kranz is an American aerospace engineer, retired fighter pilot, and a former NASA flight director and manager. He is best known for his role in the Apollo program, particularly the Apollo 13 mission, where his leadership and problem-solving skills were crucial in bringing the astronauts safely back to Earth. Kranz was born in Toledo, Ohio, and grew up with a strong interest in aviation and space. He earned a degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Parks College of Saint Louis University. Kranz joined NASA in 1960, and over his career, he became a key figure in mission control, known for his “tough and competent” approach to managing space missions. He served as Flight Director for several critical missions, including the first lunar landing, Apollo 11, and the near-disastrous Apollo 13. After the Apollo program, he continued his work at NASA, contributing to the Space Shuttle program and eventually becoming the Director of NASA’s Mission Operations. Kranz retired from NASA in 1994 but remains an influential figure in aerospace and engineering circles. He has authored a best-selling autobiography, “Failure Is Not an Option,” detailing his experiences at NASA.
5 Interesting Facts about Gene Kranz
1. Gene Kranz was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his role in the successful return of the Apollo 13 crew.
2. He is famous for his white vests, which he wore during each mission, a tradition that began during the Gemini program.
3. Kranz’s autobiography, “Failure Is Not an Option,” was adapted into a television documentary that aired on the History Channel.
4. He served as a fighter pilot in the U.S. Air Force before joining NASA.
5. Kranz played a significant role in the development of the procedures for mission control operations, which are still in use today.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Gene Kranz
1. “Failure is not an option.”
2. “Let’s work the problem, people. Let’s not make things worse by guessing.”
3. “You can’t operate a space program in which you’re afraid to fail.”
4. “I don’t believe in limits.”
5. “Spaceflight will never tolerate carelessness, incapacity, and neglect.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
The highest net worth achieved by Gene Kranz is estimated to be around $3 million.
Children
Gene Kranz has six children with his wife, Marta Cadena Kranz: Carmen, Lucy, Joan Frances, Gene, Jon, and Jean Marie.
Relevant Links
1. [Gene Kranz’s Wikipedia Page](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gene_Kranz
2. [NASA’s Biography on Gene Kranz](https://www.nasa.gov/feature/gene-kranz-biography
5. [Gene Kranz on IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0469650/
