The 2024 Explorer’s Club awardees. Pictured from left to right: Rita Cowell, Rusty Schweickart, Nico Vincent, John Shears, Callie Veelenturf (front), Frank Culbertson (back), Lynn Danaher, Dante Lauretta, Daniel S. Goldin. Credit: Felix Kunze

Today, The Explorers Club honored Apollo 9 astronaut and B612 cofounder Rusty Schweickart with the Legendary Explorer Award. This prestigious recognition celebrates individuals whose achievements transcend the ordinary bounds of history. Schweickart’s lifelong dedication to space exploration and protecting Earth from asteroid threats exemplifies the spirit of this award.

As the lunar module pilot for Apollo 9 in 1969, Schweickart’s courage and expertise earned him NASA’s Distinguished Service Medal. After his time as an astronaut, he became a leader in both public and private sectors. However, perhaps his most lasting legacy is his work to protect Earth from asteroids. In 2002, he co-founded the B612 Foundation, and later, International Asteroid Day. Schweickart was also a cofounder of the Association of Space Explorers, a nonprofit organization composed of individuals who have completed at least one Earth orbit.

The day before the award ceremony, Schweickart’s accomplishments were recognized by Dr. Martin Nweeia and Explorers Club President Richard Garriott, followed by a presentation by Rusty at the Asia Society.

Previous recipients of the Legendary Explorer Award include notable figures like John Glenn, Scott Carpenter, and Jane Goodall, placing Schweickart among history’s most impactful explorers.