Left-Handed Astronauts Who Reached for the Stars
Southpaws Beyond the Stratosphere
Throughout history, left-handed scientists have defied the odds, making groundbreaking discoveries and pushing the boundaries of human knowledge. The same holds true beyond our atmosphere, where a surprising number of left-handed astronauts have played key roles in space exploration. But how many astronauts are left handed? While the exact number is hard to pinpoint, studies suggest that left-handers are overrepresented among highly skilled professions — and the space program is no exception. It’s one more case where left handed intelligence quietly powers human progress.
So, grab your favorite left-handed mug, pour yourself something cosmic, and read on as we celebrate the famous left-handed astronauts who helped shape space history.
Cady Coleman
A blend of scientific brilliance and artistic flair carried Catherine "Cady" Coleman into space. Whether conducting experiments or playing her flute in zero gravity, she showed how left-handed scientists can bring both precision and creativity to exploration. During her six-month mission aboard the International Space Station in 2011, she became a living example of how left-handed minds push the boundaries of science (and art) even among the stars.
Charlie Duke
Becoming the youngest person to walk on the moon during Apollo 16, Charles Duke left his mark on lunar history — quite literally, as his family photo still rests on the moon's surface. His steady left hand helped him navigate the treacherous terrain and capture some of the mission's most iconic photographs, documenting the moon through a southpaw’s perspective.
Ed Mitchell
Few astronauts brought as much curiosity to space as Edgar Dean "Ed" Mitchell. As part of Apollo 14, he became the sixth person to walk on the moon. His curiosity extended far beyond his lunar mission: Mitchell went on to explore the mysteries of consciousness and the unexplained, showing how left-handed minds often venture far beyond the ordinary frontiers of science.
Donn Eisele
Calm under pressure, Donn Fulton Eisele helped pave the way for the Apollo moon landings as the command module pilot of Apollo 7. The first crewed mission in the program, Apollo 7 was a critical test flight, and Eisele's steady left-handed touch played a vital role in its success. His steady left-handed touch helped ensure the mission’s success, a crucial step toward the eventual moon landing.
Wally Schirra
With missions across Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs, Walter "Wally" Marty Schirra Jr. was one of NASA’s most experienced astronauts. His quick humor and steady left hand earned him a reputation as both a skilled pilot and a natural leader. Schirra’s calm precision proved invaluable in critical moments, making him a cornerstone of early space exploration.
Jim Lovell
Few stories in space exploration are as dramatic as Apollo 13, and James Arthur Lovell Jr.'s leadership was at the heart of it. As commander, he guided his crew through the life-or-death crisis after an onboard explosion, turning a near-disaster into one of NASA's finest hours. His left-handed leadership helped bring the crew home safely, proving that cool heads (and capable left hands) can prevail even in the harshest conditions.
Mike Collins
Orbiting the moon while his crewmates walked its surface, Michael "Mike" Collins played an essential role in the success of Apollo 11. Alone aboard the command module, he ensured that the mission ran smoothly from above. His quiet, left-handed brilliance reminds us that every great achievement is a team effort, even if not every hero’s boots touch the ground.
Buzz Aldrin
Born Edwin Eugene Aldrin Jr., Buzz Aldrin holds one of the most iconic titles in history as the second person to walk on the moon. Though reportedly born left-handed, he was encouraged to switch to his right hand as a child, a fate familiar to many lefties of his generation. Regardless of which hand held the pen or the controls, his left-handed mind helped shape space history., Aldrin’s contributions to space exploration remind us that the left-handed mind is what truly leaves a mark.
The Final Frontier, Conquered by Left-Handed Pioneers
From the moon's surface to the International Space Station, left-handed astronauts have helped expand our understanding of the universe. Whether steering spacecraft or conducting groundbreaking research, their contributions prove that lefties belong among the stars.
Looking for more left-handed pioneers? Check out our articles on famous left-handed tennis players, legendary left-handed golfers, or left-handed hockey greats.
