Harrison Schmitt

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Records

Harrison Schmitt stands alone in history as the only professional scientist to set foot on the Moon. His work on Apollo 17 provided the most detailed geological data collected during the entire Apollo program. He was the first scientist-astronaut to fly, breaking the mold that required astronauts to be test pilots. His legacy includes the discovery of orange soil, which proved the Moon had a complex volcanic past involving water. These achievements have secured his place as a pivotal figure in both geology and space exploration history.

AwardsSchmitt has received numerous honors for his contributions to space exploration and science. Notable awards include the NASA Exceptional Service Medal and various honorary doctorates. In May 2026, he is scheduled to receive the NSS Apollo Legacy Award from the National Space Society. These distinctions recognize his unique role as the only scientist-astronaut to walk on the Moon.

Honours & Distinctions

NASA Exceptional Service Medal

NASA·1973

Awarded for exceptional contributions to the Apollo 17 mission.

Honorary Doctorate

University of New Mexico·1978

Recognized for contributions to science and public service.

NSS Apollo Legacy Award

National Space Society·2026

Honored for lifetime dedication to lunar exploration.

Records & Feats

Only Scientist-Astronaut on the Moon

Historic First·1972

The only professional geologist to walk on the lunar surface.

Last Human on the Moon

Career Milestone·1972

The last person to leave the lunar surface during the Apollo era.