Wally Funk, one of the United States' earliest female test pilots and a member of the historic Mercury 13 program, died at 87. Her legacy spans both aviation milestones and a record-breaking spaceflight.
Career Highlights
Funk began her career in the 1950s as a flight instructor and later as a test pilot for the Federal Aviation Administration. In the 1960s she was selected for Mercury 13, a classified initiative that evaluated women for potential astronaut roles, though the program never proceeded to flight.
Spaceflight at Age 82
In December 2021 she flew aboard Blue Origin's New Shepard capsule, becoming the oldest woman to reach space. The sub‑orbital mission lasted roughly ten minutes and crossed the Kármán line at about 100 km.
Legacy
Funk advocated for gender equality in aerospace throughout her life, inspiring subsequent generations of female astronauts and pilots. She is survived by family, friends, and a collection of honors, including the Women in Aviation International Pioneer Award.
Reactions
Space agencies and media outlets have praised her contributions, noting that her determination and perseverance left an enduring impact on the industry.