Inside the Columbia Apollo 11 Command Module: A Journey to the Moon

🚀The Columbia Apollo 11 command module is the only piece that returned from space during the Apollo 11 mission.

🌒The command module will be displayed alongside Neil Armstrong's spacesuit at the new gallery, Destination Moon.

🪐The heat shield of the command module is thicker than in later models, as it was the first one and they were uncertain of its performance during re-entry.

🎨The interior walls of the command module were coated with a unique, fire-retardant paint, which is being preserved during the restoration process.

🔍Detailed documentation and mapping of the command module's markings and artifacts is essential for preserving its historical value.

What is the significance of the Columbia Apollo 11 command module?

—The Columbia Apollo 11 command module is the only piece that returned from space during the historic Apollo 11 mission, making it a crucial artifact in space exploration history.

Where will the command module be displayed?

—The command module will be displayed at the new gallery, Destination Moon, alongside Neil Armstrong's spacesuit, allowing visitors to see these iconic artifacts together.

Why is the heat shield of the command module thicker than in later models?

—The heat shield of the command module is thicker because it was the first one and they were uncertain of its performance during re-entry. The additional ablative material was added to protect the spacecraft from the intense heat.

What is the significance of the unique fire-retardant paint used on the interior walls?

—After the Apollo 1 fire, the materials used in the command module were changed, including a unique fire-retardant paint on the interior walls. Preserving this paint is important for maintaining the historical accuracy of the spacecraft.

Why is detailed documentation and mapping of the markings and artifacts important?

—Detailed documentation and mapping of the markings and artifacts on the command module are essential for preserving its historical value and telling the story of the Apollo 11 mission.

00:00Introduction to the Columbia Apollo 11 command module and its significance as the only piece that returned from space during the Apollo 11 mission.

04:45Exploration of the heat shield and its thickness, as well as the additional ablative material added to protect the spacecraft during re-entry.

05:59Discussion of the unique fire-retardant paint used on the interior walls of the command module and its preservation during the restoration process.

07:33Importance of detailed documentation and mapping of the markings and artifacts on the command module for preserving its historical value and telling the story of the Apollo 11 mission.