February 20, 1962 First American in Space

Today is one of those Snippet items that needs very little added to it.

After the original attempt on January 27th to send John Glenn into space was postponed, Dewitt records the successful flight on this date. It is very noticeable that he would add comments throughout the day.  

Dewitt’s Diary Tuesday February 20, 1962

Temperature 20 A blustery day. Watching the count down for John Glenn into space. He rides in a capsule weighing 2 ton propelled by rocket. He went off the ground about 10 o’clock. The exact lift off was 9:47.

This is the first American around the earth. Two Russians claimed to have gone before. At 11:30 everything was going well. Taking about 90 minutes for a trip around the world.

They took off from Cape Canaveral, Florida out over the Atlantic Ocean.

John Glenn made it three times around the world and is landed safely at sea at about 2:45 this afternoon. It was a big success in every way. Picked up by helicopter at sea.

Snow blowing today but moderate tonight clear sunset. Temperature 20 at supper time. Looks like a fine day tomorrow.

Nothing on radio or television except John Glenn great feat today.