Description: (American Aeronautical Engineer)
William J. "Pete" Knight was a distinguished American aeronautical engineer, politician, and military pilot. He had a remarkable career which included serving as a combat pilot during the Vietnam War, working as a test pilot, and becoming an astronaut. Knight was part of the elite group of X-15 pilots, where he set numerous speed and altitude records in experimental spaceplanes. Notably, he achieved the program's fastest flight and reached altitudes that met the criteria for astronaut status in the U.S. Additionally, Knight was involved in the X-20 Dyna-Soar program, further showcasing his expertise and contributions to aeronautics and space exploration.