Sterling D. Crawford, Portrait of Apollo Astronaut Charles M. Duke Jr.

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Sterling Crawford

Portrait of Apollo Astronaut Charles M. Duke Jr.

Oil on linen

On loan

36 × 48 in. (91.44 x 121.92 cm)

Charles M. Duke Jr. is one of America's most accomplished astronauts and a defining figure of the Apollo era. As Lunar Module Pilot for Apollo 16, he became the tenth—and youngest—person to walk on the Moon. Earlier, as Capsule Communicator (CapCom) for Apollo 11, Duke delivered the voice guidance that supported Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin during humanity's first lunar landing. Beyond NASA, he served his country in the U.S. Air Force, retiring as a Brigadier General, and is widely respected for his lifelong commitment to faith, family, service, and education.

Painted by his granddaughter, Sterling Crawford, this portrait seeks to capture not only Duke's historic achievements, but the character behind them. Drawing inspiration from the traditions of Old Master portraiture, the composition presents Duke with the quiet confidence and humility that have defined his life. Symbolic elements—including the American flag, a lunar globe, his wedding band, and architectural references—represent patriotism, exploration, enduring commitment, and strength of character. His familiar blue flight jacket and space-themed tie serve as reminders of a life dedicated to expanding the boundaries of human exploration while remaining deeply grounded in his family and values.

More than a portrait of an astronaut, the work is an invitation to reflect on the spirit of exploration and the individuals whose lives have shaped American history. It honors not only Duke's contributions to spaceflight, but also the ideals of curiosity, courage, perseverance, and service that continue to inspire future generations.

The original portrait is currently on long-term loan to Admiral Farragut Academy in St. Petersburg, Florida, where Charles Duke attended military preparatory school. The painting is displayed in Deseta Hall and will remain on view through January 2028, allowing students, alumni, and visitors to engage with the legacy of one of the Academy's most distinguished graduates.

Sterling Crawford

Portrait of Apollo Astronaut Charles M. Duke Jr.

Oil on linen

On loan

36 × 48 in. (91.44 x 121.92 cm)

Charles M. Duke Jr. is one of America's most accomplished astronauts and a defining figure of the Apollo era. As Lunar Module Pilot for Apollo 16, he became the tenth—and youngest—person to walk on the Moon. Earlier, as Capsule Communicator (CapCom) for Apollo 11, Duke delivered the voice guidance that supported Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin during humanity's first lunar landing. Beyond NASA, he served his country in the U.S. Air Force, retiring as a Brigadier General, and is widely respected for his lifelong commitment to faith, family, service, and education.

Painted by his granddaughter, Sterling Crawford, this portrait seeks to capture not only Duke's historic achievements, but the character behind them. Drawing inspiration from the traditions of Old Master portraiture, the composition presents Duke with the quiet confidence and humility that have defined his life. Symbolic elements—including the American flag, a lunar globe, his wedding band, and architectural references—represent patriotism, exploration, enduring commitment, and strength of character. His familiar blue flight jacket and space-themed tie serve as reminders of a life dedicated to expanding the boundaries of human exploration while remaining deeply grounded in his family and values.

More than a portrait of an astronaut, the work is an invitation to reflect on the spirit of exploration and the individuals whose lives have shaped American history. It honors not only Duke's contributions to spaceflight, but also the ideals of curiosity, courage, perseverance, and service that continue to inspire future generations.

The original portrait is currently on long-term loan to Admiral Farragut Academy in St. Petersburg, Florida, where Charles Duke attended military preparatory school. The painting is displayed in Deseta Hall and will remain on view through January 2028, allowing students, alumni, and visitors to engage with the legacy of one of the Academy's most distinguished graduates.

Duke, “Man, that crater... That is really something...Is it dark in those shadows!” Mission Control requests a panorama from this spot; Young: “Yeah, I’m supposed to do that, ain’t I?” Duke’s footprints can be followed right around the edge of Plumb crater and back to the lunar rover’s parking spot. Flag crater is far left. Duke then takes a few steps to his left as Young continues the panorama.

Catalogue Note: This image has been featured in every Apollo Remastered photographic exhibition and was also prominently featured in the recent Lightroom exhibition “The Moonwalkers: A Journey with Tom Hanks”. Notably, this image served as the show's poster, emphasizing its significance, and is now available as a special Limited Edition print, signed by the Apollo 16 astronaut featured in the image, Charlie Duke.

Remastered from the original flight film

Inspected, embossed and signed by the artist

Museum and gallery quality archival print

Signed by featured astronaut Charlie Duke

Images: AS16-114-18418 to 18425

For every purchase, $250 will be donated to the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation