Origins & Early Life

Vladimir Mikhaylovich Komarov (Russian: Владимир Михайлович Комаров, IPA: [vlɐˈdʲimʲɪr mʲɪˈxajləvʲɪtɕ kəmɐˈrof]; 16 March 1927 – 24 April 1967) was a Soviet test pilot, aerospace engineer, and cosmonaut. In October 1964, he commanded Voskhod 1, the first spaceflight to carry more than one crew member. He became the first Soviet cosmonaut to fly in space twice when he was selected as the solo pilot of Soyuz 1, its first crewed test flight. A parachute failure caused his Soyuz capsule to crash into the ground after re-entry on 24 April 1967, making him the first human to die in a space flight incident.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

He was declared medically unfit for training or spaceflight twice while in the program but continued playing an active role. During his time at the cosmonaut training center, he contributed to space vehicle design, cosmonaut training, evaluation and public relations. Komarov was born on 16 March 1927 in Moscow and grew up with his half-sister Matilda (born in 1915). His father was a labourer who worked at various low-paid jobs to support the family. In 1935, Komarov began his formal education in the local elementary school.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Here he showed a natural aptitude for mathematics...

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

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• 1927 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1927
• March 16 (03-16) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on March 16
• 1967 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1967
• April 24 (04-24) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on April 24