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Alan Bean, the Apollo 12 lunar module pilot who became the fourth person to walk on the Moon before devoting himself to painting spaceflight scenes, died on May 26, 2018, at age 86. NASA announced that he died at Houston Methodist Hospital in Houston.
Who was Alan Bean?
Bean was a NASA astronaut, lunar explorer and painter. NASA selected him in October 1963 as part of its third astronaut group. His career joined two kinds of firsthand work: flying missions and later interpreting those experiences on canvas.
What did Bean do on Apollo 12?
In November 1969, Bean flew as lunar module pilot on Apollo 12, NASA’s second crewed lunar landing. On November 19, he and mission commander Charles “Pete” Conrad landed in the Ocean of Storms. Bean became the fourth human to walk on the Moon.
During two moonwalks, the astronauts deployed experiments, inspected the Surveyor 3 spacecraft that had landed on the Moon in 1967, and collected 75 pounds (34 kilograms) of lunar rocks and soil, according to NASA’s May 26, 2018 family announcement. NASA’s release records Bean’s total as 69 days, 15 hours and 45 minutes in space, including 31 hours and 31 minutes on the lunar surface.
#1 Best Overall
- MAN'S JOURNEY TO MOON SPACE KIT: Experience the thrill of NASA's historic Mission Apollo 11 with this model-making set from Imagimake! Learn about Man's Journey to the Moon as you build 5 intricate models, including an impressive 18-inch Saturn V Rocket and 4 detailed satellites.
- WHAT YOU GET: Dive into the excitement of space exploration with this comprehensive kit! Inside, you'll find 37 Rocket & Satellite Model Pieces, 45 Plastic Joint Pieces, 1 Magnetic Mission Control Centre, 12 Mission Step Sheets, 12 Magnetic Model & Astronaut Pieces, and 1 Information & Construction Guide, providing endless opportunities for hands-on learning and imaginative play.
- INTERCHANGE & PLAY: With interchangeable satellite parts and magnetic mission control, kids can build and customize their space models. Watch magnetic astronauts zoom to their designated spots, as they navigate the spaceship and land on the lunar surface, unfolding the wonders of the cosmos.
- RECREATE APOLLO 11'S JOURNEY: Step through 12 guide sheets to live the historic mission, from launch to lunar touchdown. Utilize 4 magnetic spacecraft pieces to construct and showcase rocket components, diving into the details of space exploration. Use stickers and foam to craft a captivating moon landscape with astronauts and flags for an awe-inspiring tribute to the historic moon landing. Get ready for an unforgettable journey!
- A FUN WAY TO BUILD & LEARN: Dive into the legendary Apollo 11 mission! Kids learn about astronauts, explore mission control images, and uncover facts. With mission stickers to inspire, these science toys enhance manual dexterity, problem-solving, and logical thinking, boosting self-confidence. Plus, they introduce basic physics, engineering, and space exploration concepts, making STEM subjects enjoyable and fostering passion for learning.
What was Bean’s career after Apollo 12?
In July 1973, Bean commanded the second crewed Skylab mission. NASA’s 2018 announcement describes the flight as a record-setting 59 days in orbit.
Bean retired from NASA in 1981 and turned to painting full time. He used his astronaut’s experience as subject matter, creating scenes of lunar exploration and spaceflight. NASA notes that some of his Apollo-themed canvases incorporated the texture of lunar boot prints and pieces of mission patches. The material and imagery connected the paintings to the missions that inspired them.
Rank #2
- Relive the Crewed Apollo Moon Missions: Celebrate the historic Apollo missions with this detailed 32-inch tall model of NASA's Saturn V rocket. This iconic model replicates the rocket that launched from Cape Canaveral, making it the first to put a man on the moon. It features 3 removable rocket stages, including a lunar lander and landing module, offering a truly out-of-this-world building experience
- Awesome Out-of-This-World Design: This 3D model is packed with authentic details, including the S-IVB third stage with the lunar lander and module. Perfect as a centerpiece for your home or office, it provides a challenging and nostalgic DIY project for any space enthusiast or puzzle lover
- Designed for Space Enthusiasts: This intricately detailed model kit is a must-have for anyone passionate about space exploration and NASA's history. Whether you're keen to learn about space travel or want to enhance your cognitive skills, the NASA Apollo Saturn V 3D puzzle is an excellent choice
- Safe Material and Easy-to-Follow Instructions: Made from green paper foam board, this model is safer than metal or wood and lighter than plastic, while still being highly realistic. The detailed 3D illustrated instructions make assembly straightforward, even for beginners. Build-up size: 14" L x 6.7" W x 32" H
- Celebrate NASA's Legacy with a Unique Gift: This NASA Apollo Saturn V 3D puzzle is more than just a model—it's a tribute to the spirit of exploration and innovation that defined the Apollo missions. Perfect for space enthusiasts, this puzzle offers a rewarding experience that captures the imagination. Whether as a christmas gifts for teens for a fellow NASA fan or a treat for yourself, this model brings the wonder of space exploration into your home, making it a thoughtful addition to any collection
What did his family say when he died?
Bean’s wife, Leslie, said in NASA’s announcement: “Alan was the strongest and kindest man I ever knew. He was the love of my life and I miss him dearly.” The family statement described his death at Houston Methodist Hospital in Houston on May 26, 2018.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- HOBBY MODEL KIT – Unassembled model packed in an envelope with easy to follow instructions. Ideal for ages 14 and up
- NO GLUE OR SOLDER NEEDED – Parts can be easily clipped from the metal sheets. Tweezers are the recommended tool for bending and twisting the connection tabs
- APOLLO LUNAR MODULE – 2 Sheet Model with a moderate difficulty level. Once assembled, dimensions are 2.34 x 2.34 x 2.15 inches.
- FROM STEEL SHEETS TO 3D – Pop out the pieces and connect using tabs and holes. Includes illustrated instructions
- HIGHLY DETAILED ETCHED MODEL – Display your 3D model once completed - collect and build them all
Rank #4
- HOBBY MODEL KIT – Unassembled model packed in an envelope with easy to follow instructions. Ideal for ages 14 and up
- NO GLUE OR SOLDER NEEDED – Parts can be easily clipped from the metal sheets. Tweezers are the recommended tool for bending and twisting the connection tabs
- APOLLO CSM – 3.5 Sheet Model with a challenging difficulty level. Assembled Size: 5.07 L x 2.28 W x 3.45 H inches.
- FROM STEEL SHEETS TO 3D – Pop out the pieces and connect using tabs and holes. Includes illustrated instructions
- HIGHLY DETAILED ETCHED MODEL – Display your 3D model once completed - collect and build them all
Rank #3
- ICONIC NASA ARTEMIS I ROCKET MODEL KIT - Recreate the historic Artemis I mission with this highly detailed 1:144 scale Space Launch System (SLS)—a must-have for space enthusiasts, collectors, and model builders.
- AUTHENTIC MULTI-STAGE DETAILING - Features twin solid rocket boosters, detailed core stage with external hydrogen lines, separate stage assembly, and four RS‑25 engines for a realistic, true-to-life build.
- IMPRESSIVE 28" DISPLAY CENTERPIECE - Standing nearly 28 inches tall, this model delivers a striking vertical display that commands attention in any room, office, or collection.
- SKILL LEVEL 4 – ADVANCED BUILD EXPERIENCE - Designed for experienced hobbyists ages 12+ seeking a challenging, rewarding project with intricate parts and detailed assembly.
- READY FOR CUSTOM PAINT FINISH - Molded in light gray plastic so you can paint and detail to your exact preferences for a museum-quality appearance. (Paint & glue required, not included.)
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