Final Checks
This photo captures the historic moment of the final systems checkout of Apollo 11’s Lunar Module (LM-5) at Kennedy Space Center. The image shows the LM being meticulously inspected and tested in the Open Bay Area of the Manned Spacecraft Operations Building, a crucial step before the mission that would eventually lead to the first human landing on the moon.
Countdown Demonstration Test
In this photograph, taken during the Countdown Demonstration Test, the Apollo 11 astronauts can be seen inside a van. Following the test, which simulated the launch countdown procedures, the astronauts are being transported back to the launch complex. This moment showcases the astronauts’ readiness and anticipation as they prepare to embark on their historic journey to the moon.
Walk-Through at Pad 39-A
This image captures the Apollo 11 astronauts during an emergency egress route walk-through at Pad 39-A. In preparation for their mission, the astronauts are seen inspecting and familiarising themselves with the escape routes in case of an emergency situation at the launch pad.
Apollo 11 EVA Rehearsal
Here Neil Armstrong, the commander of Apollo 11, can be seen during an Extravehicular Activity (EVA) rehearsal. Armstrong is shown wearing a spacesuit and going through the motions of a simulated moonwalk. This rehearsal was crucial in preparing him for the historic moment when he would become the first person to set foot on the lunar surface.
1 Hour After Liftoff
Buzz Aldrin’s photo shows Neil Armstrong in Earth orbit, slightly over an hour after liftoff during Apollo 11. This iconic image captures the early stage of the mission, marking a significant milestone in human space exploration as they headed towards the moon!
Lunar Module Extraction
The image showcases the Lunar Module being extracted from the S-IVB stage approximately three and a half hours into the Apollo 11 mission. This pivotal moment marks the separation of the Lunar Module, which would eventually carry Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin to the lunar surface, from the third stage as they continued their journey towards the moon.
Buzz Aldrin inside the Lunar Module
On Day 3 of the journey to the Moon, Aldrin conducts a checkout of the module. Positioned on the left side, where Neil Armstrong would later stand for the lunar landing, Aldrin casually places sunglasses in his jacket’s arm pocket. This candid moment offers a glimpse of personal preparations amidst the historic mission.
Buzz Aldrin by Neil Armstrong
Neil Armstrong captures an image of his fellow astronaut, Buzz Aldrin, showcasing Aldrin as he explores the lunar terrain, highlighting the historic moments when humans first set foot on another celestial body.
EVA after the call from President Nixon
This image was taken just after the phone call from President Nixon, offering a glimpse into the historic moment as the astronauts conduct their exploration and scientific tasks on the moon. It was captured by the Maurer automatic 16mm data acquisition camera (DAC) through the Lunar Module window.
First Moon Photograph
This is Neil Armstrong’s first Hasselblad photograph on the Moon after setting foot on its surface during the Apollo 11 mission. The image showcases one of the jettison bags used to maintain cleanliness inside the Lunar Module cabin.