Ed Dwight, overlooked by NASA 60 years ago, has returned from his first space flight at the age of 90. He participated in Blue Origin’s private citizen-to-space program. Dwight and five others embarked on a similar short but unique journey aboard the Blue Origin New Shepard rocket’s 25th suborbital space mission. The rocket lifted off from Big Springs, Texas, on May 19. Ten minutes later, the capsule touched down on Texas soil, marking the end of an extraordinary adventure.

Reflecting on the mission, Dwight shared a profound insight. He expressed that while he didn’t feel the need for this mission after waiting 60 years, he now realizes its profound impact on him. This mission, he believes, was a necessary part of his life. With his specially made viewing glasses hanging from his neck, he said the view of the separation between Earth and outer space, also known as the Karman line, which is approximately 62 miles above Earth, was terrific. “Everybody needs to do this,” says Dwight. Dwight’s trip was sponsored by Space for Humanity and the Jaison and Jamie Robinson Foundation.