37 Facts About Apollo 17

Apollo 17: The Final Moon Mission

Apollo 17 marked the end of NASA's Apollo program, which aimed to land humans on the Moon and bring them back safely. This mission was historic for many reasons, from scientific discoveries to human achievements.

1. Apollo 17 launched on December 7, 1972, from Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
2. The mission was the last manned Moon landing of the Apollo program.
3. Eugene Cernan, the mission commander, was the last person to walk on the Moon.
4. Harrison Schmitt, the lunar module pilot, was the first scientist-astronaut to land on the Moon.
5. The mission's command module was named "America," and the lunar module was named "Challenger."

The Crew and Their Achievements

The crew of Apollo 17 consisted of three astronauts who each played a crucial role in the mission's success. Their combined expertise made this mission one of the most scientifically productive.

6. Ronald Evans served as the command module pilot, orbiting the Moon while Cernan and Schmitt explored the surface.
7. Harrison Schmitt was a geologist, making him the first professional scientist to conduct fieldwork on another celestial body.
8. Eugene Cernan had previously flown on Apollo 10 and Gemini 9A, making him a veteran astronaut.
9. The crew spent a total of 12 days, 13 hours, and 52 minutes in space.
10. Cernan and Schmitt spent 75 hours on the lunar surface, conducting three separate moonwalks.

Scientific Discoveries and Experiments

Apollo 17 was not just about human exploration; it was also a scientific mission aimed at understanding the Moon better. The experiments conducted provided valuable data that scientists still study today.

11. The crew collected 243 pounds of lunar samples, the most of any Apollo mission.
12. One of the key experiments was the Lunar Seismic Profiling Experiment, which studied moonquakes.
13. The Lunar Surface Gravimeter was used to measure the Moon's gravitational field.
14. The crew deployed the Lunar Atmospheric Composition Experiment to study the thin lunar atmosphere.
15. They also set up the Lunar Ejecta and Meteorites Experiment to measure the impact of micrometeorites on the Moon's surface.

Technological Innovations

Apollo 17 featured several technological advancements that made the mission more efficient and productive. These innovations paved the way for future space exploration.

16. The mission used the Lunar Roving Vehicle (LRV) for the second time, allowing astronauts to travel farther from the landing site.
17. The LRV covered a total distance of 22.3 miles during the mission.
18. The crew used a new type of spacesuit, the A7LB, which offered better mobility and comfort.
19. The mission featured the first use of a color television camera on the lunar surface.
20. The command module had improved navigation systems, making it easier to return to Earth.

The Legacy of Apollo 17

Apollo 17 left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire future generations of scientists, engineers, and explorers. The mission's achievements have had a profound impact on our understanding of space and our place in the universe.

21. The mission's success demonstrated the feasibility of extended lunar exploration.
22. The data collected helped scientists develop better models of the Moon's geology.
23. The mission inspired future lunar missions, including NASA's Artemis program.
24. Eugene Cernan's final words on the Moon, "We leave as we came, and, God willing, as we shall return, with peace and hope for all mankind," continue to resonate.
25. The mission's scientific findings have been cited in numerous research papers.

Cultural Impact

Apollo 17 captured the imagination of people around the world, leaving a cultural impact that extends beyond the realm of science and technology.

26. The mission was broadcast live on television, reaching millions of viewers.
27. The iconic "Blue Marble" photograph of Earth was taken during the mission.
28. The mission inspired numerous books, documentaries, and films.
29. Apollo 17's success boosted public interest in space exploration.
30. The mission's achievements have been commemorated in museums and exhibitions worldwide.

Challenges and Triumphs

Every space mission comes with its own set of challenges, and Apollo 17 was no exception. The crew's ability to overcome these obstacles showcased their resilience and ingenuity.

31. The mission faced delays due to technical issues with the Saturn V rocket.
32. The crew had to deal with a malfunctioning lunar rover fender, which they repaired using duct tape.
33. The astronauts experienced difficulties with lunar dust, which affected their equipment.
34. Despite these challenges, the mission was completed successfully and safely.
35. The crew's ability to adapt and problem-solve was a testament to their training and expertise.

The End of an Era

Apollo 17 marked the end of an era in space exploration, but it also laid the groundwork for future missions. The lessons learned continue to inform NASA's efforts to explore the Moon and beyond.

36. The mission was the last time humans traveled beyond low Earth orbit.
37. The success of Apollo 17 paved the way for future lunar missions, including plans to establish a permanent human presence on the Moon.

Final Glimpse at Apollo 17

Apollo 17 marked a significant chapter in space exploration. It was the last manned mission to the moon, leaving a legacy of scientific discoveries and inspiring future generations. The mission's crew, including the first scientist-astronaut, Harrison Schmitt, conducted extensive geological studies and brought back valuable lunar samples. Their work helped us understand the moon's history and composition better.

The mission also showcased human resilience and ingenuity. From navigating technical challenges to conducting complex experiments, the Apollo 17 team demonstrated what’s possible when determination meets innovation. Their achievements continue to influence space missions today.

Remembering Apollo 17 isn't just about looking back; it’s about appreciating the strides made in space exploration. It serves as a reminder of our potential to reach new frontiers. As we look to the future, the legacy of Apollo 17 will undoubtedly inspire new adventures beyond our planet.