March 15

Alan Bean was a Navy test pilot selected in NASA’s second astronaut group in 1963. He flew on the Apollo 12 mission in 1969, becoming the fourth human to set foot on the lunar surface. During his career, he also served as commander of the Skylab 3 mission and logged over 1,700 hours in space. After retiring from NASA, Bean pursued painting, creating works inspired by his lunar experiences. His art bridged science and creativity, contributing to public interest in space exploration. Bean received numerous honors including the Navy Distinguished Flying Cross and the NASA Distinguished Service Medal.

Julie Tullis (1939–1986) was a notable British mountaineer renowned for her technical skill and endurance. She participated in several challenging Himalayan expeditions, often navigating treacherous routes at high altitude. Tullis gained recognition for her leadership and her work as a climbing photographer. In 1986, she took part in the ill-fated K2 expedition and tragically lost her life during the descent. Her determination and legacy continue to inspire mountaineers, especially women pushing the boundaries of high-altitude climbing.