Why Deny the Moon Landings?

From as early as the first of the Apollo missions, a small group of Americans denied that they had taken place at all. They argued that the missions had been faked in Hollywood by the federal government for purposes ranging from embezzlement of the public treasury to complex conspiracy theories involving international intrigue and murderous criminality. At the time of the first landings, opinion polls showed that overall less than five percent, among some communities larger percentages, “doubted the moon voyage had taken place.” Fueled by conspiracy theorists of all stripes, this number has grown over time, especially among Americans between 18 to 24 years old. Doubt is different from denial, but it was a trend that seemed to be growing over time among those who did not witness the events.

Join space history curator Roger Launius as he discusses how, and most importantly, why this questioning of the Moon landings has taken place. What does it say about our culture? How might we discern the truth and what critical thinking skills help to understand and assess evidence concerning the Moon landings?  

Meet at the Welcome Center in the Boeing Milestones of Flight Hall on the first floor.

About the Ask an Expert lecture series: Every Wednesday at noon in the National Mall Building, a Museum staff member talks to the public about the history, collection, or personalities related to a specific artifact or exhibition in the Museum.