San Diego Air & Space Museum’s educational bulletin board celebrating the 75th anniversary of Snoopy

From pilot to astronaut to man’s best friend, Snoopy of the Peanuts comic series has charmed readers for decades with his wit and ridiculous hijinks. First appearing in the series Peanuts in 1950, Snoopy is Charlie Brown’s pet beagle, who over time became more than just a pet. Instead his personality changed towards the adventurous!

In 1965, Snoopy began his deep rooted rivalry with the Red Baron, a famous World War 1 flying ace. Dogfighting takes on a whole new meaning when Snoopy takes to the skies in his British Sopwith Camel.

Four years later, in 1969, Snoopy became the first beagle on the moon! However, his space journey didn’t stop there, as just 2 months later the Apollo 10 launched using the names “Snoopy” and “Charlie Brown” as call signs between the lunar and command modules. The mission was a success, and gave way for Apollo 11 to land man on the moon. For dedication to lunar safety, members of NASA can receive a Silver Snoopy Award, this prize is in the form of a pin which is sent into space before being awarded.

Commander Thomas P. Stafford petting a Snoopy doll en route to launch.

So while Snoopy may have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade float, and even perform in an award winning Broadway musical, there's no denying that this beagle’s dedication to aviation and space exploration is admirable to all viewers, inspiring innovation for 75 years and beyond!

Snoopy on the ISS

Snoopy ISS posters