The challenge of sending astronauts to the Moon’s surface for the first time and bringing them safely back to earth did not end when Apollo 11’s command module Columbia splashed down in the central Pacific Ocean. The U.S. Navy personnel aboard the aircraft carrier USS Hornet (CV-12) faced numerous challenges in recovering the astronauts and returning them to port in quarantine. Hear a helicopter pilot, diver, and flight surgeon recall the triumph of ensuring astronauts Neil Armstrong, Michael Collins, and Buzz Aldrin completed their momentous voyage, allowing the billions around the world collectively holding their breath to exhale.
Panelists:
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To request an ASL interpreter, please email NASMPublicLectures@si.edu. We recommend that you submit your request for this event by October 8, 2019.
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