Ellison Onizuka

Ellison Shoji Onizuka (June 24, 1946 - January 28, 1986) was an American astronaut from Kealakekua, Kona, Hawai'i who died during the explosion of the Space Shuttle Challenger, where he was serving as mission specialist on mission STS-51-L.

Early life

Ellison Onizuka was the oldest son and second youngest child of the late Masamitsu and Mitsue Onizuka's children. He had two older sisters, Shirley and Norma, and a younger brother, Claude. Claude became the family spokesman when Ellison attained fame as an astronaut and continued after the Challenger accident. Growing up Ellison was an active participant in 4-H and Boy Scouts, where he reached the level of Eagle Scout.

Related Topics:
Challenger accident - 4-H - Boy Scouts - Eagle Scout

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He graduated from Konawaena High School in Kealakekua in 1964. He received a Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering in June 1969, and a Master's in that field in December of the same year, from the University of Colorado. He participated in Air Force ROTC during his time there.

Related Topics:
Konawaena High School - 1964 - Aerospace engineering - University of Colorado

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Onizuka married Lorna Leiko Yoshida while completing his studies at the University of Colorado. They had two daughters, Janelle Mitsue (b. 1968) and Darien Lei Shizue (b. 1975).

Related Topics:
1968 - 1975

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