Dec 212024
 

Earthrise by Apollo 8 Astronauts

Apollo 8 was launched in 1968. Apollo 8 was the first manned mission to leave earth’s orbit, orbit the moon, and return to earth safely. One of the main goals was to view the dark side of the moon. Commander Frank Borman, Lunar Module Pilot William Anders, and Command Module Pilot James Lovell orbited around the moon on December 24 and returned to earth on December 27. On Christmas Eve they broadcast live from space and read the first ten verses of Genesis. The television show was the most watched program at that time. Children could learn more at: Apollo 8.