Apollo 8: The mission that changed space exploration

Apollo 8: The mission that changed space exploration

Step back in time and be part of the first crewed NASA mission to orbit the Moon, the Apollo 8. At the immersive Apollo 8 and the Firing Room exhibit, you will get the chance to relive the pivotal moments that shaped humanity’s journey to the Moon and beyond. Scroll through to find out all about the space mission and exhibit at Kennedy Space Center.

A brief history

Commanded by Frank Borman, the Apollo 8 mission marked a historic leap for space exploration. It laid the groundwork for the operational procedures and teamwork required for the Apollo 11 Moon landing.

• December 21, 1968: Apollo 8 was launched from Kennedy Space Center, becoming the first human mission to orbit the Moon.
• December 24, 1968: The crew entered lunar orbit and conducted 10 orbits around the Moon.
• December 1968: During one of the lunar orbits, astronaut Bill Anders captured the legendary Earthrise photo, showcasing Earth rising above the Moon’s horizon.
• December 25, 1968: Apollo 8 began its journey back to Earth.
• December 27, 1968: The spacecraft safely splashed down in the Pacific Ocean, successfully completing the mission.

Fun facts about the Apollo 8 mission

• Apollo 8 was the first crewed mission to leave Earth’s orbit, enter the gravitational influence of another celestial body, and successfully orbit the Moon. 
• This was the first human spaceflight mission launched from Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex 39A, setting the stage for future Apollo missions.
• On Christmas Eve, the Apollo 8 crew made a memorable live television broadcast, reading from the Book of Genesis and wishing viewers a Merry Christmas while orbiting the Moon. This broadcast was seen by approximately one billion people in 64 countries.
• Astronaut Jim Lovell humorously announced to Mission Control on Christmas day, “Please be informed there is a Santa Claus,” adding a light-hearted touch to their historic journey.