Marcus Manglona from Guam has achieved an extraordinary milestone—his name is now engraved on the moon, a testament to his place in history. This honor emerged from the successful lunar landing of the Blue Ghost spacecraft by Firefly Aerospace on March 2nd, which not only transported essential scientific equipment for NASA but also featured a commemorative plaque with the names of over 700 individuals, including Manglona’s.
For Manglona, this recognition transcends personal accomplishment; it carries deep emotional weight. He reflected on his upbringing, sharing, “My parents always told me to dream for the stars,” noting that this moment embodies that philosophy. As a proud CHamoru, having his family name etched in lunar history is particularly poignant, especially in memory of his late father.
In his role as an Electrical Ground Support Equipment technician at Firefly, Manglona acknowledges that his achievements stem from collective efforts. Celebrating the safe landing of the Blue Ghost, he remarked, “It’s part of history now,” emphasizing the significance of Firefly’s place as one of the first private companies to accomplish such a feat, following the pioneering efforts of established nations.
Curtis Szajkovics, a systems engineer with Firefly, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the enduring nature of the nameplate that will remain on the moon for millions of years. This milestone is not merely a technological success but a reflection of years of hard work and dedication from all involved in the mission.
Firefly Aerospace has ambitious plans for the future, including an increased number of lunar missions. They are currently developing a second moon lander, slated for launch next year. Manglona also pointed out the company’s focus on enhancing capabilities for more frequent satellite launches, demonstrating a commitment to broadening access to space.
Manglona aims to dispel the misconception that only those with advanced degrees can work in the aerospace sector, urging aspiring professionals to be persistent in their interests. His encouraging message for future generations is clear: “Dream big and don’t stop. Every dream can be accomplished. So if you have a dream, don’t stop chasing it.”
This narrative serves as a source of inspiration, showcasing the power of believing in one’s dreams and how technological advancements in space exploration can ignite collective aspirations. It particularly encourages youth from regions like Guam to delve into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Manglona’s story is a powerful reminder that with perseverance and dedication, anyone can achieve remarkable feats and leave a lasting legacy.
Leave a comment