Thursday, April 10th

This is your official Air Force Academy History Update for Thursday, April 10th– 

On this day, back in 1986  —  Halley’s Comet comes closest to earth (39 million miles away) during its once every 75-76 years pass.  During its appearance, hundreds of people visited the Academy’s observatory to catch a glimpse of the comet through the 24-inch telescope.  The next pass was expected in July 2061. 

…Also on this day, back in 2017  —  Cadet Shane Starrett, Class of ’19, signs a two-year National Hockey League (NHL) entry level contract with the Edmonton Oilers.  The goaltender was the first Falcon to sign an NHL contact while still at the Academy (though he would have to resign).  Air Force has never had a player go on to play in the NHL. 

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