What is Buzz Aldrin’s Net Worth?
Buzz Aldrin, an iconic figure in American history and a former astronaut, boasts an estimated net worth of $12 million. Aldrin is best known for his historic lunar landing alongside Neil Armstrong in 1969 as part of the Apollo 11 mission. His financial portfolio is influenced by his achievements in space exploration, his military service, and his various post-NASA endeavors.
Early Life and Education
Born Edwin Eugene Aldrin Jr. in 1930 in Glen Ridge, New Jersey, Buzz Aldrin was influenced early by his father, Edwin Sr., a former aviator and a Standard Oil executive. Aldrin attended Montclair High School where he was active in sports and scouting. He later graduated third in his class from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1951 with a degree in mechanical engineering.
Military Career
After West Point, Aldrin joined the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a fighter pilot during the Korean War. He flew 66 combat missions and was awarded two Distinguished Flying Crosses. His post-war career included a stint as an instructor and later as a flight commander in West Germany.
NASA Career and Apollo 11
Aldrin’s academic pursuits led him to earn a Sc.D. in Astronautics from MIT, which paved the way for his selection into NASA’s Astronaut Group 3. His space career highlighted by the historic Apollo 11 mission where he served as the Lunar Module Pilot. This mission marked the first manned lunar landing, during which Aldrin followed Neil Armstrong onto the lunar surface.
Post-NASA Career
Post-NASA, Aldrin served as the Commandant of the USAF Aerospace Research Pilot School and later focused on promoting space exploration and science education. He founded the ShareSpace Foundation and advocated for future manned missions to Mars.
Financial Insights
Income Sources and Investments
- NASA and Military Pensions: As a retired Air Force Colonel and a former NASA astronaut, Aldrin receives pensions.
- Public Speaking and Appearances: Aldrin earns from speaking engagements and appearances at various scientific, educational, and historical events.
- Book Royalties: Aldrin has authored several books about his experiences and views on space exploration.
- Consulting and Endorsements: Consultancy roles and endorsements also contribute to his income.
Real Estate
Aldrin’s real estate ventures include purchasing a condominium in Westwood, Los Angeles for $1.34 million in 1998 and selling it in 2014 for $2.857 million.
Philanthropy and Influence
Aldrin’s contributions to space exploration have been influential in shaping public interest and scientific understanding of space. His philanthropic efforts are channeled through his foundation, which focuses on STEM education and space advocacy.
Honors and Awards
Aldrin’s achievements have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, and induction into several halls of fame.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Edwin Eugene Aldrin Jr. |
| Professional Name | Buzz Aldrin |
| Date of Birth | January 20, 1930 |
| Place of Birth | Glen Ridge, New Jersey, USA |
| Education | – Montclair High School – United States Military Academy at West Point (B.S., Mechanical Engineering, 1951) – MIT (Sc.D., Astronautics, 1963) |
| Military Service | – U.S. Air Force (1951–1972) – Korean War fighter pilot – Flew 66 combat missions – Awards: Distinguished Flying Crosses (2), Air Medals (3) |
| NASA Career | – Joined NASA in 1963 – Gemini 12 mission (1966) – Apollo 11 Lunar Module Pilot (1969) – First manned lunar landing |
| Post-NASA Career | – Commandant of the USAF Aerospace Research Pilot School – Founded ShareSpace Foundation – Advocate for manned Mars missions |
| Net Worth | Estimated $12 million |
| Income Sources | – Military and NASA pensions – Public speaking and appearances – Book royalties – Consulting and endorsements |
| Real Estate | – Purchased condominium in Westwood, Los Angeles for $1.34 million (1998) – Sold for $2.857 million (2014) |
| Philanthropy | – Founder of ShareSpace Foundation – Focus on STEM education and space exploration advocacy |
| Honors and Awards | – Presidential Medal of Freedom – NASA Distinguished Service Medal – Air Force Distinguished Service Medal – Several honorary degrees |
| Significant Achievements | – Second human to walk on the Moon – Conducted first religious ceremony on the Moon – Advocate for space education and exploration |
| Family | – Ex-wives: Joan Archer, Beverly Van Zile, Lois Driggs Cannon – Children: James, Janice, and Andrew |
| Residence | Has lived in Beverly Hills, Westwood, Emerald Bay, Laguna Beach, and Satellite Beach, Florida |
Conclusion
Buzz Aldrin’s net worth reflects a lifetime of dedication to service, science, and education. His financial standing and investments show the lasting value of his contributions to both space exploration and his community.