Victor Glover to Become First Black Astronaut to Orbit Moon

When Victor Glover pilots NASA's Artemis II mission around the Moon in April 2026, he'll become the first Black astronaut to ever orbit Earth's nearest neighbor. But this historic moment connects to an earlier explorer whose contributions have been overlooked for more than two centuries.

York was born into slavery in Virginia around 1770 and grew up alongside William Clark. When Meriwether Lewis asked Clark to join his famous expedition in 1803, Clark brought York along, forcing him to leave his wife behind for the grueling journey west.

From the start, York proved indispensable to the Corps of Discovery. He was chosen as one of only two men to operate the expedition's crucial whipsaw, helping build winter quarters in freezing conditions. He hunted buffalo, collected scientific specimens, and nursed sick expedition members, including Sacagawea.

York's skills as a riverman became critical when the expedition reached the Columbia River. New historical research reveals that Clark praised York's ability to "manage the boats" through treacherous rapids. At a time when few people could swim, York's strength and water skills helped the entire party survive the dangerous crossing.

Despite his vital contributions, York faced cruelty from fellow expedition members. One day, someone threw sand in his face so violently that he nearly lost his eyesight. Yet he continued serving as diplomat and curiosity during councils with Native tribes, where the Arikara called him "the most marvelous" thing about the entire expedition.

The Ripple Effect: Victor Glover's upcoming journey to the Moon represents more than personal achievement. It shines light on generations of Black explorers who pushed boundaries despite facing enormous obstacles. York never chose his adventure and received no recognition during his lifetime, but his courage and skill helped open the American West.

Today, Glover flies by choice, celebrated as a hero and role model. His mission reminds us that exploration has always included diverse voices, even when history tried to erase them.

When Artemis II launches in 2026, Glover will carry forward a legacy of Black excellence in exploration that began with an enslaved man navigating uncharted wilderness more than 220 years ago.