2024 AAS Lifetime Achievement Award Winner
The AAS Lifetime Achievement Award honors individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to the field of astronautics. Presented only once every ten years on the anniversary of the Society, this prestigious award recognizes a lifetime of dedication, innovation, and impact on the advancement of space exploration and technology. Previous winners include Edward C. Stone, E.C. “Pete” Aldridge, Jr., and Wernher von Braun.
AAS is proud to announce that Gene Kranz has been selected to receive the 2024 AAS Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding and sustained contributions to the field of astronautics. Flight Director Gene Kranz’ career spanned Mercury through STS. His tough and competent leadership and must-never-fail style enabled historic mission successes, saved lives and NASA’s human space program, and inspired many students and professionals.
Kranz was recognized on May 15, 2025, at Space Center Houston, in Houston, Texas. Visit the event page here.
Congratulations to Gene Kranz on this well-deserved honor!
The 2025 AAS awards cycle is open throughout the year. To learn more about our various awards, visit the awards nomination site here.