February 20 in American History

February 20, 1962 — John Glenn orbits the Earth

John Glenn became the first American to orbit the Earth, circling the planet three times aboard Friendship 7 as a nervous nation held its breath. The flight pulled America even in the Space Race and made Glenn a national hero. At 77, he'd fly again on the space shuttle — the oldest person ever in space.

Common Questions

What happened on February 20 in American history?

In 1962: John Glenn orbits the Earth. John Glenn became the first American to orbit the Earth, circling the planet three times aboard Friendship 7 as a nervous nation held its breath.

Why is February 20 significant?

John Glenn became the first American to orbit the Earth, circling the planet three times aboard Friendship 7 as a nervous nation held its breath. The flight pulled America even in the Space Race and made Glenn a national hero. At 77, he'd fly again on the space shuttle — the oldest person ever in space.

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