Moon Walker, Freemason, Senior DeMolay: The Extraordinary Life of Edgar Mitchell

Edgar Dean Mitchell, a name etched in history as an astronaut, aviator, and scientist, was more than just a space explorer. His remarkable journey from the lunar surface to his passionate involvement in the Order of DeMolay and Freemasonry reflects a life dedicated to exploration, both in the realms of science and the pursuit of deeper truths. This essay unveils the incredible life of Edgar Mitchell, the sixth person to walk on the Moon, and his significant contributions to the Masonic fraternity and the Order of DeMolay.

Early Life and Education

Born on September 17, 1930, in Hereford, Texas, to Joseph and Ollidean Mitchell, Edgar Mitchell hailed from a ranching family. His upbringing in New Mexico instilled in him a love for flying, and he earned his private pilot license at the young age of 16. Mitchell's adventurous spirit led him to join the Boy Scouts of America, where he achieved the rank of Life Scout and embraced the values of leadership and service.

A Member of DeMolay and Masonic Brotherhood

Edgar Mitchell's journey into the world of Freemasonry began during his youth. He became a member of DeMolay International, a part of the Masonic Fraternity, and eventually earned a place in the DeMolay Hall of Fame. His affiliation with Artesia Lodge #29 in New Mexico further solidified his commitment to Masonic principles.

Educational Pursuits and Military Service

Mitchell's pursuit of knowledge was relentless. After graduating from Artesia High School in 1948, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial management from Carnegie Institute of Technology (now Carnegie Mellon University). In 1952, he joined the United States Navy and completed his basic training at the San Diego Recruit Depot.

His military career saw him achieve the rank of Ensign in 1953, following which he became a Naval Aviator and was awarded the Daughters of the American Revolution Award for his outstanding performance during flight training. Mitchell later pursued a second bachelor's degree, this time in aeronautical engineering, at the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School in 1961. In 1964, he earned his Doctor of Science degree in aeronautics and astronautics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

NASA Career and Apollo 14

Edgar Mitchell's selection as part of NASA's fifth astronaut group in 1966 marked the beginning of his journey into space. Initially assigned to the support crew for Apollo 9 and designated as backup Lunar Module Pilot for Apollo 10, he ultimately found himself on the Apollo 14 mission. This mission would become a significant chapter in his life.

On February 5, 1971, Mitchell, alongside Commander Alan Shepard, landed on the lunar surface as part of Apollo 14. Their historic journey included 33 hours on the Moon, where they conducted scientific experiments and collected lunar samples. Mitchell's experience of standing on the lunar surface, gazing back at Earth, profoundly affected his perspective on humanity and the planet.

A Commitment to Consciousness and the Paranormal

Edgar Mitchell's post-NASA career was marked by his deep interest in consciousness and paranormal phenomena. He conducted private ESP experiments with friends on Earth, and the results were published in the Journal of Parapsychology in 1971. His experiences in space had led to a heightened awareness of the interconnectedness of humanity and a desire to explore the mysteries of the mind.

Founding the Institute of Noetic Sciences

In 1973, Mitchell founded the Institute of Noetic Sciences (IONS) in Palo Alto, California, with the aim of advancing consciousness research and exploring related phenomena. He believed in bridging the gap between science and spirituality and sought to promote a holistic understanding of reality.

Legacy and Reflections

Edgar Mitchell's life serves as an inspiration to all those who seek to explore the frontiers of knowledge and consciousness. His journey from the lunar surface to the depths of the human mind exemplifies the boundless potential of the human spirit. Mitchell's legacy lives on through his contributions to space exploration, his pioneering work in consciousness research, and his dedication to the principles of Freemasonry and the Order of DeMolay.

Edgar Mitchell's extraordinary life encompassed the realms of space, science, and spirituality. He walked on the Moon, delved into the mysteries of the mind, and remained a devoted member of the Masonic fraternity and the Order of DeMolay. His enduring legacy reminds us that the pursuit of knowledge, service to others, and the quest for deeper understanding are the hallmarks of an extraordinary life.