Apollo program

Definition

The Apollo program was a series of space missions conducted by NASA between 1961 and 1972 aimed at landing humans on the Moon and bringing them safely back to Earth. It culminated in six successful manned lunar landings, significantly advancing our understanding of the Moon's properties.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Apollo 11 was the first mission to successfully land humans on the Moon on July 20, 1969, with astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin.
2. The program provided extensive data about the lunar surface, including soil samples and photographs that helped scientists study craters and other geological features.
3. Apollo missions confirmed that lunar craters were primarily caused by impacts from meteoroids rather than volcanic activity.
4. Seismometers placed on the Moon by Apollo astronauts recorded moonquakes, providing insights into its internal structure.
5. Apollo missions discovered that the Moon lacks a substantial atmosphere, which allows for clearer observation of its cratered surface.

Review Questions

• Which Apollo mission was the first to successfully land humans on the Moon?
• How did Apollo missions contribute to our understanding of lunar craters?
• What type of geological activities were recorded by seismometers placed on the Moon during Apollo missions?

Related terms

Neil Armstrong: The astronaut who became the first human to walk on the Moon during Apollo 11.

Lunar Module: The spacecraft used in Apollo missions to transport astronauts from lunar orbit to the Moon's surface and back.

Moonquakes: Seismic activities on the Moon's surface detected by instruments left by Apollo astronauts.