Walt Cunningham (Apollo 7) speaks during the 40th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission and the walk on the moon press conference, Monday, July 20, 2009, at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Paul E. Alers)

NASA Apollo 7 Astronaut Walt Cunningham, left, and NASA STS-125 Mission Specialist Michael Massimino talk with another guest during the opening of "Alan Bean: Painting Apollo, First Artist on Another World" by NASA Apollo 12 Astronaut and Artist Alan Bean at the National Air and Space Museum, Monday, July 20, 2009 in Washington. The show opening coincided with the 40th anniversary celebration of Apollo. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

Astronaut James Lovell (Apollo 8 Apollo 13), center, flanked by Walt Cunningham (Apollo 7), left, and David Scott (Apollo 9 Apollo 15) responds during the 40th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission and the walk on the moon press conference, Monday, July 20, 2009, at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Paul E. Alers)

Astronaut Walt Cunningham on the Reduced Gravity Walking Simulator located at the Lunar Landing Facility. The purpose of this simulator was to study the subject while walking, jumping or running. Researchers conducted studies of various factors such as fatigue limit, energy expenditure, and speed of locomotion. A.W. Vigil described the purpose of the simulator in his paper "Discussion of Existing and Planned Simulators for Space Research," "When the astronauts land on the moon they will be in an unfamiliar environment involving, particularly, a gravitational field only one-sixth as strong as on earth. A novel method of simulating lunar gravity has been developed and is supported by a puppet-type suspension system at the end of a long pendulum. A floor is provided at the proper angle so that one-sixth of the subject's weight is supported by the floor with the remainder being supported by the suspension system. This simulator allows almost complete freedom in vertical translation and pitch and is considered to be a very realistic simulation of the lunar walking problem. For this problem this simulator suffers only slightly from the restrictions in lateral movement it puts on the test subject. This is not considered a strong disadvantage for ordinary walking problems since most of the motions do, in fact, occur in the vertical plane. However, this simulation technique would be severely restrictive if applied to the study of the extra-vehicular locomotion problem, for example, because in this situation complete six degrees of freedom are rather necessary. This technique, in effect, automatically introduces a two-axis attitude stabilization system into the problem. The technique could, however, be used in preliminary studies of extra-vehicular locomotion where, for example, it might be assumed that one axis of the attitude control system on the astronaut maneuvering unit may have failed." -- Published in James R. Hansen, Spaceflight Revolution: NASA Langley Research Center From Sputnik to Apollo, (Washington: NASA, 1995), p. 377; A.W. Vigil, "Discussion of Existing and Planned Simulators for Space Research," Paper presented at Conference on the Role of Simulation in Space Technology," Blacksburg, VA, August 17-21, 1964.

Apollo astronauts from left, Walt Cunningham (Apollo 17), James Lovell (Apollo 8 Apollo 13), David Scott (Apollo 9 Apollo 15), Buzz Aldrin (Apollo 11), Charles Duke (Apollo 16), Thomas Stafford (Apollo 10) and Eugene Cernan (Apollo 17) are seen during the 40th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission and the walk on the moon press conference, Monday, July 20, 2009, at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Paul E. Alers)

Apollo astronauts from left, Walt Cunningham (Apollo 17), James Lovell (Apollo 8 Apollo 13), David Scott (Apollo 9 Apollo 15), Buzz Aldrin (Apollo 11), Charles Duke (Apollo 16), Thomas Stafford (Apollo 10) and Eugene Cernan (Apollo 17) are seen during the 40th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission and the walk on the moon press conference, Monday, July 20, 2009, at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Paul E. Alers)

Apollo astronauts from left, Walt Cunningham (Apollo 17), James Lovell (Apollo 8 Apollo 13), David Scott (Apollo 9 Apollo 15), Buzz Aldrin (Apollo 11), Charles Duke (Apollo 16), Thomas Stafford (Apollo 10) and Eugene Cernan (Apollo 17) are seen during the 40th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission and the walk on the moon press conference, Monday, July 20, 2009, at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Paul E. Alers)

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Apollo/Saturn V Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Apollo astronaut Walt Cunningham is introduced during NASA's 40th Anniversary of Apollo Celebration of the July 1969 launch and landing on the moon. Cunningham was joined by seven others involved in the program. Cunningham occupied the lunar module pilot seat for the 11-day flight of Apollo 7--the first manned flight test of the third-generation United States spacecraft. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Apollo/Saturn V Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Apollo astronaut Buzz Aldrin comments on his experiences as one of the first moon walkers, on the Apollo 11 mission in July 1969. At right is astronaut Walt Cunningham. Aldrin, Cunningham and other Apollo astronauts participated in NASA's 40th Anniversary of Apollo Celebration. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Apollo/Saturn V Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Apollo astronaut Walt Cunningham shares his experiences with an eager crowd gathered for NASA's 40th Anniversary of Apollo Celebration of the July 1969 launch and landing on the moon. Cunningham occupied the lunar module pilot seat for the 11-day flight of Apollo 7--the first manned flight test of the third-generation United States spacecraft. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Marking the occasion of the Apollo 11 30th Anniversary, members of the Apollo and Saturn astronaut programs attended festivities at Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, AL. A press conference was held at the U. S. Space and Rocket Center for the visiting astronauts. Pictured are (L/R): Edgar Mitchell, Walt Cunningham, Charlie Duke, Buzz Aldrin, Dick Gordon and Owen Garriott.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Hall of Fame astronaut Al Worden speaks during the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame induction ceremony held at Kennedy's Visitor Complex in Florida. Worden is a member of the hall of fame. The ceremony took place May 2. More than 20 hall of fame astronauts attended, including Scott Carpenter, Walt Cunningham, Jim Lovell and Bob Crippen. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Hall of Fame astronaut Al Worden acknowledges warm applause from spectators at the 2009 U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame induction ceremony at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The ceremony took place May 2. More than 20 hall of fame astronauts attended, including Scott Carpenter, Walt Cunningham, Jim Lovell and Bob Crippen. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Closing NASA's 40th Anniversary of Apollo Celebration at the Apollo/Saturn V Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Center Director Bob Cabana thanks the Apollo astronauts who participated. Seen here (from left) are Al Worden, Edgar Mitchell, Walt Cunningham and Buzz Aldrin. The celebration honored the July 1969 launch and landing on the moon. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame astronauts are seated on stage at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida for the induction of three more astronauts. The ceremony took place May 2. More than 20 hall of fame astronauts attended, including Scott Carpenter, Walt Cunningham, Jim Lovell and Bob Crippen. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – CNN correspondent John Zarella, left, moderates NASA's 40th Anniversary of Apollo Celebration of the July 1969 launch and landing on the moon. The ceremony, held in the Apollo/Saturn V Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida featured Apollo astronauts (at the dais) Buzz Aldrin, Walt Cunningham, Edgar Mitchell, Al Worden, Charlie Duke, Vance Brand, Gerald Carr and Bruce McCandless. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – CNN Correspondent John Zarella (left), moderates NASA's 40th Anniversary of Apollo Celebration of the moon launch and landing in July 1969, which was held in the Apollo/Saturn V Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. At right are Apollo astronauts Buzz Aldrin, Walt Cunningham and Edgar Mitchell. Eight Apollo astronauts shared their experiences with a crowd of guests. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– NASA's Kennedy Space Center Director Bob Cabana speaks during the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame induction ceremony held at Kennedy's Visitor Complex in Florida. Cabana is a member of the hall of fame. The ceremony took place May 2. More than 20 hall of fame astronauts attended, including Scott Carpenter, Walt Cunningham, Jim Lovell and Bob Crippen. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Astronaut William Shepherd addresses the spectators at the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame after his induction in the ceremony held at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Shepherd was commander of the first crew to live aboard the International Space Station. The ceremony took place May 2. More than 20 hall of fame astronauts attended, including Scott Carpenter, Walt Cunningham, Jim Lovell and Bob Crippen. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Hall of Fame astronaut Hank Hartsfield thanks the audience for its applause at the 2009 U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame induction ceremony at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The ceremony took place May 2. More than 20 hall of fame astronauts attended, including Scott Carpenter, Walt Cunningham, Jim Lovell and Bob Crippen. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Apollo/Saturn V Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Apollo astronauts Buzz Aldrin, Walt Cunningham, Edgar Mitchell and Al Worden applaud during the introduction of Charlie Duke at NASA's 40th Anniversary of Apollo Celebration of the July 1969 launch and landing on the moon. Eight Apollo astronauts participated in the ceremony. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Apollo/Saturn V Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida is filled with guests gathered to hear about the Apollo 11 launch and landing in July 1969 from eight Apollo astronauts: . The event is part of NASA's 40th Anniversary of Apollo Celebration. Participating are CNN correspondent, who moderated, Buzz Aldrin, Walt Cunningham, Edgar Mitchell, Al Worden, Charlie Duke, Vance Brand, Gerald Carr and Bruce McCandless. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – With CNN correspondent John Zarella (left) moderating, Apollo astronauts (at the dais) Buzz Aldrin, Walt Cunningham, Edgar Mitchell, Al Worden, Charlie Duke, Vance Brand, Gerald Carr and Bruce McCandless share stories of their experiences during NASA's 40th Anniversary of Apollo Celebration of the July 1969 launch and landing on the moon. The ceremony was held in the Apollo/Saturn V Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame member Al Worden presents a medal to James Wetherbee as a new inductee into the hall of fame. The ceremony was held at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Wetherbee was commander of the longest-docked shuttle-Mir mission. The ceremony took place May 2. More than 20 hall of fame astronauts attended, including Scott Carpenter, Walt Cunningham, Jim Lovell and Bob Crippen. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Closing NASA's 40th Anniversary of Apollo Celebration at the Apollo/Saturn V Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Center Director Bob Cabana thanks the Apollo astronauts who participated. Seen here (at left) are Al Worden, Edgar Mitchell, Walt Cunningham and Buzz Aldrin; at right is Charlie Duke. The celebration honored the July 1969 launch and landing on the moon. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Apollo/Saturn V Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida is filled with guests gathered to hear about the Apollo 11 launch and landing in July 1969 from eight Apollo astronauts: Buzz Aldrin, Walt Cunningham, Edgar Mitchell, Al Worden, Charlie Duke, Vance Brand, Gerald Carr and Bruce McCandless . The event is part of NASA's 40th Anniversary of Apollo Celebration. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Apollo astronauts who participated in NASA's 40th Anniversary of Apollo Celebration at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Apollo/Saturn V Center pose for photographers and guests. From left are Al Worden, Edgar Mitchell, Walt Cunningham, Buzz Aldrin, Charlie Duke, Vance Brand, Gerald Carr and Bruce McCandless. The celebration honored the July 1969 launch and landing on the moon. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Former CNN space correspondent John Zarrella, left, interviews Apollo astronauts Charlie Duke, center and Walt Cunningham during opening ceremonies for the Heroes and Legends attraction at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The new facility includes the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame and looks back to the pioneering efforts of Mercury, Gemini and Apollo. It sets the stage by providing the background and context for space exploration and the legendary men and women who pioneered the nation's journey into space.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Hall of Fame astronaut Buzz Aldrin thanks the audience for its applause at the 2009 U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame induction ceremony at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The ceremony took place May 2. More than 20 hall of fame astronauts attended, including Scott Carpenter, Walt Cunningham, Jim Lovell and Bob Crippen. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Hall of Fame astronaut and NASA's Kennedy Space Center Director Robert Cabana thanks the audience for its applause at the 2009 U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame induction ceremony at Kennedy's Visitor Complex in Florida. The ceremony took place May 2. More than 20 hall of fame astronauts attended, including Scott Carpenter, Walt Cunningham, Jim Lovell and Bob Crippen. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

Members of the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame listen to speakers during the opening of the Heroes and Legends attraction at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. From the left are: Bob Crippen, Vance Brand, Ed Gibson, Jack Lousma, Charlie Duke, Al Worden, Walt Cunningham and Buzz Aldrin. The new facility includes the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame and looks back to the pioneering efforts of Mercury, Gemini and Apollo. It sets the stage by providing the background and context for space exploration and the legendary men and women who pioneered the nation's journey into space.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Hall of Fame astronaut Dick Gordon thanks the audience for its applause at the 2009 U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame induction ceremony at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The ceremony took place May 2. More than 20 hall of fame astronauts attended, including Scott Carpenter, Walt Cunningham, Jim Lovell and Bob Crippen. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Apollo/Saturn V Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Apollo astronaut Bruce McCandless shares his experiences with spectators crowd gathered for NASA's 40th Anniversary of Apollo Celebration of the July 1969 launch and landing on the moon. Other Apollo astronauts on the dais are (from left) Buzz Aldrin, Edgar Mitchell, Al Worden, Charlie Duke, Gerald Carr and Vance Brand. Astronaut Walt Cunningham is hidden behind Mitchell. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Neil Armstrong, former Apollo 11 astronaut, and first man to walk on the moon, talks about his experiences for an enthusiastic audience at the Apollo/Saturn V Center, part of the KSC Visitor Complex. The occasion was a banquet celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Among other guests at the banquet were astronauts Wally Schirra, Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin and Walt Cunningham. Gene Cernan was the last man to walk on the moon

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Hall of Fame astronaut Jim Lovell thanks the audience for its applause at the 2009 U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame induction ceremony at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The ceremony took place May 2. More than 20 hall of fame astronauts attended, including Scott Carpenter, Walt Cunningham, Jim Lovell and Bob Crippen. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The new inductees into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame stand for an ovation during the ceremony May 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. From left are Loren Shriver; Bryan O'Connor, NASA's chief of Safety and Mission Assurance at NASA Headquarters in Washington; John Blaha; and Robert Cabana, center director of NASA's Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. Other former astronauts attending included Scott Carpenter, John Young, Bob Crippen, and Walt Cunningham. The U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame is operated by Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on behalf of NASA. CNN correspondent John Zarrella hosted the event.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Apollo/Saturn V Center, Lisa Malone (left), chief of KSC's Media Services branch, identifies a reporter to pose a question to one of the former Apollo astronauts seated next to her. From left, they are Neil A. Armstrong and Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin who flew on Apollo 11, the launch to the moon; Gene Cernan, who flew on Apollo 10 and 17; and Walt Cunningham, who flew on Apollo 7. This is the 30th anniversary of the launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Neil Armstrong was the first man to set foot on the moon

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– At left, U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame member Al Worden congratulates astronaut William Shepherd (center) on his induction into the hall of fame during the ceremony held at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. At right is Center Director Bob Cabana, who is a member of the hall of fame. Shepherd was commander of the first crew to live aboard the International Space Station. The ceremony took place May 2. More than 20 hall of fame astronauts attended, including Scott Carpenter, Walt Cunningham, Jim Lovell and Bob Crippen. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Photographers and cameramen fill the stands of the Apollo/Saturn V Center for a press conference with former Apollo astronauts (seated, left to right) Neil A. Armstrong and Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin who flew on Apollo 11, the launch to the moon; Gene Cernan, who flew on Apollo 10 and 17; and Walt Cunningham, who flew on Apollo 7. At left is Lisa Malone, chief of KSC's Media Services branch, who monitored the session. The four astronauts were at KSC for the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Neil Armstrong was the first man to set foot on the moon

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Former Apollo 11 astronaut Neil A. Armstrong is the center of attention at the anniversary banquet honoring the Apollo team, the people who made the entire lunar landing program possible. The banquet was held in the Apollo/Saturn V Center, part of the KSC Visitor Complex. This is the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Neil Armstrong was the first man to set foot on the moon. He appeared at the banquet with other former astronauts Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin, Gene Cernan, Walt Cunningham and others

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – During NASA's 40th Anniversary of Apollo Celebration at the Apollo/Saturn V Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Center Director Bob Cabana (center) and Chief Operating Officer of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Bob Moore (left of Cabana) join Apollo astronauts on the stage. At far left is the program moderator John Zarella, with CNN. The astronauts are (from left) Al Worden, Edgar Mitchell, Walt Cunningham, Buzz Aldrin, (Moore, Cabana), Charlie Duke, Vance Brand, Gerald Carr and Bruce McCandless. The celebration honored the July 1969 launch and landing on the moon. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Former Apollo 15 astronaut Alfred M. Worden relates his experiences in the Apollo Program during a banquet honoring the people who made it all possible. Held on the anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission, which was launched July 16, 1969, and landed on the moon July 20, 1969, the banquet was held in the Apollo/Saturn V Center. Worden served as command module pilot on the Apollo 15 mission. Other guests at the banquet were astronauts Neil Armstrong, Wally Schirra, Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin and Walt Cunningham. Armstrong was the first man to walk on the moon; Gene Cernan was the last

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Apollo/Saturn V Center, Lisa Malone (left), chief of KSC's Media Services branch, relays a question from the media to former Apollo astronaut Neil A. Armstrong. Beside Armstrong are Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin, Gene Cernan, and Walt Cunningham, all of whom also flew on Apollo missions. The four met with the media prior to an anniversary banquet highlighting the contributions of aerospace employees who made the Apollo program possible. The banquet celebrated the 30th anniversary of the launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Neil Armstrong was the first man to set foot on the moon

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The new inductees into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame step forward on stage for photographs following their induction. From left are Loren Shriver; Bryan O'Connor, NASA's chief of Safety and Mission Assurance at NASA Headquarters in Washington; John Blaha; and Robert Cabana, center director of NASA's Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. The ceremony was held May 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Other former astronauts attending included Scott Carpenter, John Young, Bob Crippen, and Walt Cunningham. The U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame is operated by Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on behalf of NASA. CNN correspondent John Zarrella hosted the event.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Hall of Fame astronauts (from left) Gordon Fullerton, Henry W. "Hank" Hartsfield Jr., Rick Hauk, Dan Brandenstein, Brewster Shaw, Robert "Hoot" Gibson, Bruce McCandless, Steven Hawley, Loren Shriver, Jeff Hoffman, Fred Gregory, John Blaha and Bob Cabana watch the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame induction ceremony at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Cabana is the Kennedy Space Center director. The ceremony took place May 2. More than 20 hall of fame astronauts attended, including Scott Carpenter, Walt Cunningham, Jim Lovell and Bob Crippen. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Former Apollo astronaut Gene Cernan makes a point during a presentation at the Apollo 11 anniversary banquet honoring the Apollo team, the people who made the entire lunar landing program possible. The banquet was held in the Apollo/Saturn V Center, part of the KSC Visitor Complex. This is the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Cernan appeared with other former astronauts Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon; Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin; Walt Cunningham; and others

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Apollo/Saturn V Center, Lisa Malone (left), chief of KSC's Media Services branch, waits for photographers to take photos of former Apollo astronauts (left to right) Neil A. Armstrong and Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin who flew on Apollo 11, the launch to the moon; Gene Cernan, who flew on Apollo 10 and 17; and Walt Cunningham, who flew on Apollo 7. The four met with the media prior to an anniversary banquet highlighting the contributions of aerospace employees who made the Apollo program possible. The banquet celebrated the 30th anniversary of the launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Neil Armstrong was the first man to set foot on the moon

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Apollo/Saturn V Center, Lisa Malone (left), chief of KSC's Media Services branch, laughs at a humorous comment along with former Apollo astronauts Neil A. Armstrong and Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin who flew on Apollo 11, the launch to the moon; Gene Cernan, who flew on Apollo 10 and 17; and Walt Cunningham, who flew on Apollo 7. The four met with the media before an anniversary banquet celebrating the accomplishments of the Apollo program team. This is the 30th anniversary of the launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Neil Armstrong was the first man to set foot on the moon

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During an anniversary banquet honoring the Apollo program team, the people who made the entire lunar landing program possible, former Apollo astronauts Neil Armstrong (left) and Gene Cernan talk about their experiences. The banquet was held in the Apollo/Saturn V Center, part of the KSC Visitor Complex. This is the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Other guests at the banquet were astronauts Wally Schirra, Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin and Walt Cunningham. Neil Armstrong was the first man to walk on the moon; Gene Cernan was the last

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During an anniversary banquet honoring the Apollo program team, the people who made the entire lunar landing program possible, former Apollo astronauts Neil Armstrong (left) and Gene Cernan talk about their experiences. The banquet was held in the Apollo/Saturn V Center, part of the KSC Visitor Complex. This is the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Other guests at the banquet were astronauts Wally Schirra, Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin and Walt Cunningham. Neil Armstrong was the first man to walk on the moon; Gene Cernan was the last

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – During NASA's 40th Anniversary of Apollo Celebration at the Apollo/Saturn V Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Visitor Complex Chief Operating Officer, Bob Moore (center left), gives Center Director Bob Cabana a plaque commemorating the Apollo Treasures Gallery. Others on stage are (far left) the program moderator, John Zarella, with CNN, and Apollo astronauts Al Worden, Edgar Mitchell, Walt Cunningham, Buzz Aldrin, (Moore, Cabana), Charlie Duke, Vance Brand, Gerald Carr and Bruce McCandless. The celebration honored the July 1969 launch and landing on the moon. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– Hall of Fame astronaut Rick Hauk (right) welcomes one of the new members, astronaut George "Pinky" Nelson, into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame. The ceremony was held at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Nelson was one of only six space shuttle astronauts to fly untethered in space using NASA's Manned Maneuvering Unit. The ceremony took place May 2. More than 20 hall of fame astronauts attended, including Scott Carpenter, Walt Cunningham, Jim Lovell and Bob Crippen. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– George "Pinky" Nelson (right) is introduced as one of the new members of the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. At left is hall of fame member Al Worden. Nelson was one of only four space shuttle astronauts to fly untethered in space using NASA's Manned Maneuvering Unit. The ceremony took place May 2. More than 20 hall of fame astronauts attended, including Scott Carpenter, Walt Cunningham, Jim Lovell and Bob Crippen. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Former astronaut Robert Cabana (center) receives congratulations on his induction into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame from former inductees Al Worden (left) and Michael Coats (right). Other inductees were John Blaha, Loren Shriver; and Bryan O'Connor, NASA's chief of Safety and Mission Assurance at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Other former astronauts attending included Scott Carpenter, John Young, Bob Crippen, and Walt Cunningham. The U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame is operated by Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on behalf of NASA. CNN correspondent John Zarrella hosted the event.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At a media conference in the Apollo/Saturn V Center, former Apollo astronaut Gene Cernan, who flew on Apollo 10 and 17, makes a point in a comment for the press. Joining him in the conference are other Apollo astronauts (left) Neil A. Armstrong and Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin, who both flew on Apollo 11, the launch to the moon; and (right) Walt Cunningham, who flew on Apollo 7. The four astronauts were at KSC for the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Neil Armstrong was the first man to set foot on the moon

Alabama Governor Don Seigleman cuts the ribbon marking the dedication of the Saturn V rocket replica that was constructed at the U. S. Space and Rocket Center in honor of the 30th arniversary of the lunar landing. Accompanying the Governor are (L/R): Mike Wing, CEO US Space Rocket Center; Mike Gillespie, Madison County Commissioner, Dist. Seven; Buzz Aldrin, Apollo 11 Astronaut; Governor Seigleman; Walt Cunningham, Apollo 7 Astronaut; Dick Gordon, Apollo 12 Astronaut; Ed Mitchell, Apollo 14 Astronaut; Charlie Duke, Apollo 16 Astronaut; and Owen Garriott, Skylab 3 Astronaut.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Former Apollo astronauts Neil Armstrong (left) and Gene Cernan entertain the audience during an anniversary banquet honoring the Apollo program team, the people who made the entire lunar landing program possible. The banquet was held in the Apollo/Saturn V Center, part of the KSC Visitor Complex. This is the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Other guests at the banquet were astronauts Wally Schirra, Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin and Walt Cunningham. Neil Armstrong was the first man to walk on the moon; Gene Cernan was the last

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Apollo/Saturn V Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Apollo astronauts (from left) Buzz Aldrin, Walt Cunningham, Edgar Mitchell, Al Worden, Charlie Duke, Vance Brand and Gerald Carr applaud the addition of Apollo astronaut Bruce McCandless on stage for NASA's 40th Anniversary of Apollo Celebration of the July 1969 launch and landing on the moon. McCandless was a member of the astronaut support crew for the Apollo 14 mission and was backup pilot for the first manned Skylab mission. Among other accomplishments, he collaborated on the development of the Manned Maneuvering Unit used during shuttle EVAs. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the Astronaut Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, new inductee Bruce McCandless (left) receives the medal from Chairman Owen Garriott. Seen behind them are current Hall of Famers Walt Cunningham and Bill Anders (at left), Al Worden (center), and Charlie Duke and Jack Lousma. The other new inductees are Joe Allen and Gordon Fullerton. The event is being held in the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s Apollo_Saturn V Center. Recognized for their individual flight accomplishments and contributions to the success and future success of the U.S. space program, this elite group of inductees is among only 60 astronauts to be honored in the Hall of Fame and the fourth group of Space Shuttle astronauts named.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Former Apollo astronauts Neil Armstrong (left) and Gene Cernan entertain the audience during an anniversary banquet honoring the Apollo program team, the people who made the entire lunar landing program possible. The banquet was held in the Apollo/Saturn V Center, part of the KSC Visitor Complex. This is the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Other guests at the banquet were astronauts Wally Schirra, Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin and Walt Cunningham. Armstrong was the first man to walk on the moon; Cernan was the last

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Former Apollo astronauts meet with the media at the Apollo/Saturn V Center prior to an anniversary banquet highlighting the contributions of aerospace employees who made the Apollo program possible. From left are Neil A. Armstrong and Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin who flew on Apollo 11, the launch to the moon; Gene Cernan, who flew on Apollo 10 and 17; and Walt Cunningham, who flew on Apollo 7. This is the 30th anniversary of the launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Neil Armstrong was the first man to set foot on the moon

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Apollo/Saturn V Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Apollo astronaut Charlie Duke (far right) joins Buzz Aldrin, Walt Cunningham, Edgar Mitchell and Al Worden on the stage at NASA's 40th Anniversary of Apollo Celebration of the July 1969 launch and landing on the moon. Eight Apollo astronauts participated in the ceremony. Duke served as lunar module pilot on Apollo 16 in 1972. He and astronaut John Young set a record of 72 hours and 14 minutes on the lunar surface. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Members of the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame stand for an ovation following the induction of the newest members (at center): Loren Shriver; Bryan O'Connor, NASA's chief of Safety and Mission Assurance at NASA Headquarters in Washington; John Blaha; and Robert Cabana, center director of NASA's Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. The ceremony was held May 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Other former astronauts attending included Scott Carpenter, John Young, Bob Crippen, and Walt Cunningham. The U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame is operated by Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on behalf of NASA. CNN correspondent John Zarrella hosted the event.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– New inductee astronaut George "Pinky" Nelson addresses the spectators at the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame ceremony held at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Nelson was one of only six space shuttle astronauts to fly untethered in space using NASA's Manned Maneuvering Unit. The ceremony took place May 2. More than 20 hall of fame astronauts attended, including Scott Carpenter, Walt Cunningham, Jim Lovell and Bob Crippen. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Former Apollo astronauts Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin (left) and Gene Cernan share stories about their missions for an audience attending an anniversary banquet honoring the Apollo program team, the people who made the entire lunar landing program possible. The banquet was held in the Apollo/Saturn V Center, part of the KSC Visitor Complex. This is the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Other guests at the banquet were astronauts Wally Schirra, Gene Cernan and Walt Cunningham. Neil Armstrong was the first man to walk on the moon; Gene Cernan was the last

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Former Apollo 11 astronaut Neil A. Armstrong stands to a round of applause after being introduced at the anniversary banquet honoring the Apollo team, the people who made the entire lunar landing program possible. The banquet was held in the Apollo/Saturn V Center, part of the KSC Visitor Complex. This is the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Neil Armstrong was the first man to set foot on the moon. He appeared at the banquet with other former astronauts Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin, Gene Cernan, Walt Cunningham and others

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At an anniversary banquet honoring the Apollo program team, the people who made the entire lunar landing program possible, Center Director Roy D. Bridges offers remarks. The banquet was held in the Apollo/Saturn V Center, part of the KSC Visitor Complex. This is the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Among the guests at the banquet were astronauts Neil Armstrong, Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin, Wally Schirra, Gene Cernan and Walt Cunningham. Neil Armstrong was the first man to walk on the moon; Gene Cernan was the last

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- NASA Administrator Daniel S. Goldin (right) addresses the audience at the Apollo 11 anniversary banquet honoring the Apollo team, the people who made the entire lunar landing program possible. The banquet was held in the Apollo/Saturn V Center, part of the KSC Visitor Complex, with seating under an unused Saturn V rocket like those that powered the Apollo launches . This is the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Among the guests at the banquet were former Apollo astronauts are Neil A. Armstrong and Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin who flew on Apollo 11, the launch of the first moon landing; Gene Cernan, who flew on Apollo 10 and 17 and was the last man to walk on the moon; and Walt Cunningham, who flew on Apollo 7

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Apollo/Saturn V Center, Lisa Malone, chief of KSC's Media Services branch, identifies a reporter in the stands to pose a question to one of the former Apollo astronauts seated next to her. From left to right, they are Neil A. Armstrong and Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin who flew on Apollo 11, the launch to the moon; Gene Cernan, who flew on Apollo 10 and 17; and Walt Cunningham, who flew on Apollo 7. Behind them on the lower floor are the original computer consoles used in the firing room during the Apollo program. They are now part of the reenactment of the Apollo launches in the exhibit at the center. This is the 30th anniversary of the launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Neil Armstrong was the first man to set foot on the moon

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Apollo/Saturn V Center, George Meguiar (center left) and George English (center right) present scholarships to two students who entered an essay contest in conjunction with the 30th Anniversary of Apollo 11. The winners shown are Kyla Davis Horn, of Cocoa Beach, and Kyle Rukaczewski, of Satellite Beach. A third winner, Jason Gagnon, of Viera, was unable to attend. Meguiar and English head the Apollo 11 Commemoration Association which sponsored the contest in conjunction with Florida Today newspaper. The presentation was made at the Apollo/Saturn V Center during an anniversary banquet that honored all the people who made the Apollo Program possible. Special guests included former Apollo astronauts Neil Armstrong, Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin, Gene Cernan and Walt Cunningham, who shared their experiences with the audience

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In this closeup viewed from above, former Apollo astronauts (seated, left to right) Neil A. Armstrong and Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin who flew on Apollo 11, the launch to the moon; Gene Cernan, who flew on Apollo 10 and 17; and Walt Cunningham, who flew on Apollo 7, answer questions from the media during a press conference in the Apollo/Saturn V Center. At left is Lisa Malone, chief of KSC's Media Services branch, who monitored the session. In the background are the original computer consoles used in the firing room during the Apollo program. They are now part of the reenactment of the Apollo launches in the exhibit at the center. The four astronauts were at KSC for the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Former astronaut John Blaha (center) receives congratulations on his induction into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame May 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center from former inductees Al Worden (left) and Fred Gregory (right). Other inductees were Loren Shriver; Bryan O'Connor, NASA's chief of Safety and Mission Assurance at NASA Headquarters in Washington; and Bob Cabana, center director of NASA's Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. Other former astronauts attending included Scott Carpenter, John Young, Bob Crippen, and Walt Cunningham. The U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame is operated by Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on behalf of NASA. CNN correspondent John Zarrella hosted the event.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– The three newest inductees into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame congratulate each other after receiving their medals. From left are George "Pinky" Nelson, who was one of only six space shuttle astronauts to fly untethered in space using NASA's Manned Maneuvering Unit; William Shepherd, who was commander of the first crew to live aboard the International Space Station; and James Wetherbee, who was commander of the longest-docked shuttle-Mir mission. The ceremony was held at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The ceremony took place May 2. More than 20 hall of fame astronauts attended, including Scott Carpenter, Walt Cunningham, Jim Lovell and Bob Crippen. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- NASA Administrator Daniel S. Goldin addresses the audience at the Apollo 11 anniversary banquet honoring the Apollo team, the people who made the entire lunar landing program possible. The banquet was held in the Apollo/Saturn V Center, part of the KSC Visitor Complex. This is the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Among the guests at the banquet were former Apollo astronauts are Neil A. Armstrong and Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin who flew on Apollo 11, the launch of the first moon landing; Gene Cernan, who flew on Apollo 10 and 17 and was the last man to walk on the moon; and Walt Cunningham, who flew on Apollo 7

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, Kennedy Space Center Director and Hall of Famer Robert Cabana speaks during the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame induction ceremony. Behind and to the right of Cabana is Apollo astronaut Walt Cunningham, and directly to the left is STS-1 shuttle pilot Bob Crippen, both Hall of Famers. Space shuttle astronauts Franklin Chang Diaz, Kevin Chilton and Charlie Precourt were inducted into the Hall of Fame Class of 2012. The year’s inductees were selected by a committee of current Hall of Fame astronauts, former NASA officials, historians and journalists. The selection process is administered by the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Members of the Astronaut Hall of Fame are applauded by the guests at the Astronaut Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony held at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s Apollo_Saturn V Center. From left are Al Gordon, John Young, Walt Cunningham, Bill Anders, Owen Garriott, Ed Mitchell, Gordon Fullerton, Al Worden, Charlie Duke, Joe Allen, Jack Lousma, Bruce McCandless, Bill Pogue, Robert Crippen, Jim Lovell, Dan Brandenstein, Robert “Hoot” Gibson, Fred Haise, and Stephen Covey. Not pictured are Scott Carpenter and Vance Brand. McCandless, Allen and Fullerton are the 2005 inductees. Recognized for their individual flight accomplishments and contributions to the success and future success of the U.S. space program, this elite group of inductees is among only 60 astronauts to be honored in the Hall of Fame and the fourth group of Space Shuttle astronauts named.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- George Meguiar (left) presents a scholarship award to Kyla Davis Horn, of Cocoa Beach, one of the winners of an essay contest related to the 30th Anniversary of Apollo 11. Meguiar and George English (second from right) head the Apollo 11 Commemoration Association who sponsored the contest in conjunction with Florida Today newspaper. The other scholarship winner is Kyle Rukaczewski, of Satellite Beach (far right). A third winner, Jason Gagnon, of Viera, was unable to attend. The presentation was made at the Apollo/Saturn V Center during an anniversary banquet that honored all the people who made the Apollo Program possible. Special guests included former Apollo astronauts Neil Armstrong, Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin, Gene Cernan and Walt Cunningham, who shared their experiences with the audience

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Former astronaut John Blaha (center) is inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame May 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Presenting the medal are former inductees Al Worden (left) and Fred Gregory (right). Other inductees were Loren Shriver; Bryan O'Connor, NASA's chief of Safety and Mission Assurance at NASA Headquarters in Washington; and Bob Cabana, center director of NASA's Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. Other former astronauts attending included Scott Carpenter, John Young, Bob Crippen, and Walt Cunningham. The U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame is operated by Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on behalf of NASA. CNN correspondent John Zarrella hosted the event.

Cape Canaveral, Fla. -- Retired Apollo astronaut Walt Cunningham greets spectators from a vintage Chevrolet Corvette during a commemorative parade in Cocoa Beach, Fla. A group of current and retired NASA astronauts gathered in Cocoa Beach to commemorate NASA’s 50 years of accomplishments and to honor astronaut Alan Shepard’s Mercury/Freedom 7 suborbital flight May 5, 1961.The event was marked by a parade, with the astronauts riding in a fleet of Chevrolet Corvettes that corresponded with the time period of their space missions. Members of the Cape Kennedy Corvette Club, a group established in 1967, escorted almost two dozen astronauts or their family representatives in club members' cars. The Corvette parade started at the glass bank building, at 9:34 a.m. EDT, the same time Shepard launched into space. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame member Walt Cunningham is introduced at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, prior to the ceremony in which Bonnie Dunbar, Curt Brown and Eileen Collins will be inducted into the group of space pioneers. This induction is the twelfth group of space shuttle astronauts named to the AHOF, and the first time two women are inducted at the same time. The year’s inductees were selected by a committee of current Hall of Fame astronauts, former NASA officials, historians and journalists. The selection process is administered by the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation. For more on the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, go to http:__www.kennedyspacecenter.com_astronaut-hall-of-fame.aspx For more on the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation, go to http:__astronautscholarship.org_ Photo credit: NASA_ Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, Kennedy Space Center Director and Hall of Famer Robert Cabana speaks during the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame induction ceremony. Behind and to the right of Cabana is Apollo astronaut Walt Cunningham, and directly to the left is STS-1 shuttle pilot Bob Crippen, both Hall of Famers. Space shuttle astronauts Franklin Chang Diaz, Kevin Chilton and Charlie Precourt were inducted into the Hall of Fame Class of 2012. The year’s inductees were selected by a committee of current Hall of Fame astronauts, former NASA officials, historians and journalists. The selection process is administered by the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Owen Garriott, chairman of the Astronaut Hall of Fame, waits to address guests at the Astronaut Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony held at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s Apollo_Saturn V Center. Hall of Famers seated on stage are (from left, back row), Dick Gordon, Walt Cunningham, Bill Anders, Ed Mitchell, Al Worden, Charles Duke, Jack Lousma, Bill Pogue, Robert Crippen, Dan Brandenstein, Robert “Hoot” Gibson and Stephen Covey. In front are (left to right) Jim Lovell, Fred Haise and Vance Brand. The new inductees (not pictured) are Gordon Fullerton, Bruce McCandless and Joe Allen. Recognized for their individual flight accomplishments and contributions to the success and future success of the U.S. space program, this elite group of inductees is among only 60 astronauts to be honored in the Hall of Fame and the fourth group of Space Shuttle astronauts named.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During an anniversary banquet honoring the Apollo program team, the people who made the entire lunar landing program possible, former Apollo astronaut Gene Cernan relates a humorous comment while Wally Schirra (background) gestures behind him. Cernan, who flew on Apollo 10 and 17, was the last man to walk on the moon; Schirra flew on Apollo 7. The banquet was held in the Apollo/Saturn V Center, part of the KSC Visitor Complex. This is the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Other guests at the banquet were former Apollo astronauts are Neil A. Armstrong and Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin who flew on Apollo 11, the launch of the first moon landing, and Walt Cunningham, who also flew on Apollo 7

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the Astronaut Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, new inductee Bruce McCandless speaks to the guests. Seen behind him are current Hall of Famers (back row) Al Gordon, Walt Cunningham, Jack Lousma, Bill Pogue, Robert Crippen, Dan Brandenstein and Robert “Hoot” Gibson; (front row) Scott Carpenter, John Young, Owen Garriott, Jim Lovell, Fred Haise and Vance Brand. Garriott is chairman of the Astronaut Hall of Fame. The other new inductees are Joe Allen and Gordon Fullerton. The event is being held in the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s Apollo_Saturn V Center. Recognized for their individual flight accomplishments and contributions to the success and future success of the U.S. space program, this elite group of inductees is among only 60 astronauts to be honored in the Hall of Fame and the fourth group of Space Shuttle astronauts named.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At a media conference in the Apollo/Saturn V Center, former Apollo astronaut Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin, who flew on Apollo 11, the launch to the moon, demonstrates a point in his comment for the press. Joining him in the conference are other Apollo astronauts Neil A. Armstrong (left), who also flew on Apollo 11 and was the first man to set foot on the moon; Gene Cernan (right), who flew on Apollo 10 and 17; and Walt Cunningham (back to camera), who flew on Apollo 7. In the background is Lisa Malone, chief of KSC's Media Services branch, who monitored the session. The four astronauts were at KSC for the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Viewed from above, former Apollo astronauts (seated, left to right) Neil A. Armstrong and Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin who flew on Apollo 11, the launch to the moon; Gene Cernan, who flew on Apollo 10 and 17; and Walt Cunningham, who flew on Apollo 7, answer questions from the media during a press conference in the Apollo/Saturn V Center. At left is Lisa Malone, chief of KSC's Media Services branch, who monitored the session. In the background are the original computer consoles used in the firing room during the Apollo program. They are now part of the reenactment of the Apollo launches in the exhibit at the center. The four astronauts were at KSC for the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Former astronaut and NASA's chief of Safety and Mission Assurance at NASA Headquarters in Washington, Bryan O'Connor (center) is inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame May 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Presenting the medal are former inductees Al Worden (left) and Brewster Shaw (right). Other inductees were John Blaha, Loren Shriver; and Bob Cabana, center director of NASA's Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. Other former astronauts attending included Scott Carpenter, John Young, Bob Crippen, and Walt Cunningham. The U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame is operated by Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on behalf of NASA. CNN correspondent John Zarrella hosted the event.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During an anniversary banquet honoring the Apollo team, the people who made the entire lunar landing program possible, former Apollo astronaut Neil A. Armstrong (left) shakes the hand of Judy Goldin (center), wife of NASA Administrator Daniel S. Goldin (right). The banquet was held in the Apollo/Saturn V Center, part of the KSC Visitor Complex. This is the 30th anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch and moon landing, July 16 and July 20, 1969. Among the guests at the banquet were former Apollo astronauts are Neil A. Armstrong and Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin who flew on Apollo 11, the launch of the first moon landing; Gene Cernan, who flew on Apollo 10 and 17 and was the last man to walk on the moon; and Walt Cunningham, who flew on Apollo 7

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Former astronaut Loren Shriver (center) is inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame May 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Presenting the medal are former inductees Al Worden (left) and Charles Bolden (right). Other inductees were John Blaha; Bryan O'Connor, NASA's chief of Safety and Mission Assurance at NASA Headquarters in Washington; and Bob Cabana, center director of NASA's Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. Other former astronauts attending included Scott Carpenter, John Young, Bob Crippen, and Walt Cunningham. The U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame is operated by Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on behalf of NASA. CNN correspondent John Zarrella hosted the event.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– The three newest inductees into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame share the stage after receiving their medals. From left are George "Pinky" Nelson, who was one of only six space shuttle astronauts to fly untethered in space using NASA's Manned Maneuvering Unit; William Shepherd, who was commander of the first crew to live aboard the International Space Station; and James Wetherbee, who was commander of the longest-docked shuttle-Mir mission. The ceremony was held at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The ceremony took place May 2. More than 20 hall of fame astronauts attended, including Scott Carpenter, Walt Cunningham, Jim Lovell and Bob Crippen. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– The three newest inductees into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame proudly join current members after the induction ceremony held at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. In front, from left, are George "Pinky" Nelson, who was one of only six space shuttle astronauts to fly untethered in space using NASA's Manned Maneuvering Unit; William Shepherd, who was commander of the first crew to live aboard the International Space Station; and James Wetherbee, who was commander of the longest-docked shuttle-Mir mission. The ceremony was held at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The ceremony took place May 2. More than 20 hall of fame astronauts attended, including Scott Carpenter, Walt Cunningham, Jim Lovell and Bob Crippen. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, members of the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame are joined by Bill Moore, chief operating officer of the visitor complex pose under the space shuttle Atlantis in the facility where it will be displayed beginning June 29. The shuttle is currently protected by plastic wrap as constitution contuse. Pictured, left to right are, Curt Brown, Robert, 'Hoot' Gibson, Buzz Aldrin, Joe Allen, Rick Hauck, Steven Hawley, Fred Haise, Owen Garriott, Brewster Shaw. Jack Lousma, Dan Brandenstein, Vance Brand, Loren Shriver, Moore, Bonnie Dunbar, Eileen Collins, Charlie Duke, Walt Cunningham, John Blaha, Franklin Chang-Diaz, Karol Bobko, George 'Pinky' Nelson and Jeff Hoffmann. This induction is the twelfth group of space shuttle astronauts named to the AHOF, and the first time two women are inducted at the same time. The year’s inductees were selected by a committee of current Hall of Fame astronauts, former NASA officials, historians and journalists. The selection process is administered by the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation. For more on the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, go to http:__www.kennedyspacecenter.com_astronaut-hall-of-fame.aspx For more on the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation, go to http:__astronautscholarship.org_ Photo credit: NASA_ Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Following the induction ceremony welcoming five new space program heroes in the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, the members line up for a commemorative photo. From left, in front, are John Young, John Glenn Jr., Scott Carpenter, Wally Schirra, Gordon Cooper, Walt Cunningham, Ed Mitchell, Al Worden, Rick Hauck, Ed Gibson, Owen Garriott, Vance Brand, Robert Crippen, Joe Engle, Dan Brandenstein. In back are space author Andrew Chaikin, at the podium; and Norm Thagard, June Scobee representing her late husband Dick Scobee, Kathryn Sullivan, Fred Gregory, Richard Covey and Jim Lovell. The induction ceremony was held at the Apollo/Saturn V Center at KSC. The U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame opened in 1990 to provide a place where space travelers could be remembered for their participation and accomplishments in the U.S. space program. The five inductees join 52 previously honored astronauts from the ranks of the Gemini, Apollo, Skylab, Apollo-Soyuz, and Space Shuttle programs.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Owen Garriott, chairman of the Astronaut Hall of Fame, speaks to guests at the Induction Ceremony of three new additions to the Hall of Fame: Gordon Fullerton, Bruce McCandless and Joe Allen. Seated on stage are current Hall of Famers, from left in the back row, Dick Gordon, Walt Cunningham, Bill Anders, Ed Mitchell, Al Worden, Charles Duke, Jack Lousma, Bill Pogue, Robert Crippen, Dan Brandenstein, Robert “Hoot” Gibson and Stephen Covey. In front, from left, are Master of Ceremonies LeVar Burton, who starred in the television series “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” and Hall of Famers Scott Carpenter and John Young, and at right, Jim Lovell and Fred Haise. The ceremony is being held in the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s Apollo_Saturn V Center. Recognized for their individual flight accomplishments and contributions to the success and future success of the U.S. space program, this elite group of inductees is among only 60 astronauts to be honored in the Hall of Fame and the fourth group of Space Shuttle astronauts named.

Cape Canaveral, Fla. -- Hall of Fame astronaut Walt Cunningham thanks the audience for their applause at the 2011 U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame induction ceremony at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Hall of Fame astronauts and visitors gathered to honor 2011 inductees Karol "Bo" Bobko and Susan Helms. During his 19 years in the astronaut program, Bobko flew on three space shuttle missions and logged more than 386 hours in space. He served as pilot during the first voyage of space shuttle Challenger aboard STS-6 in April 1983 and as commander during the maiden flight of space shuttle Atlantis aboard STS-51J in October 1985. Helms, a five-time space shuttle astronaut, has logged 5,064 hours in space. During her stay onboard the International Space Station as a member of the Expedition-2 crew in 2001, Helms performed a world record 8 hour and 56 minute spacewalk. Bobko and Helms join the ranks of the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame bringing the number of space explorers enshrined in the Hall of Fame to 79. Photo Credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

In October 1963, the Project Mercury Summary Conference was held in the Houston, TX, Coliseum. This series of 44 photos is documentation of that conference. A view of the Houston, TX, Coliseum, and parking area in front with a Mercury Redstone Rocket setup in the parking lot for display (S63-16451). A view of an Air Force Atlas Rocket, a Mercury Redstone Rocket, and a Mercury Spacecraft on a test booster on display in the front area of the Coliseum (S63-16452). A view an Air Force Atlas Rocket and a Mercury Redstone Rocket set up for display with the Houston City Hall in the background (S63- 16453). This view shows the Atlas Rocket, Mercury Redstone, and Mercury Test Rocket with the Houston, TX, Coliseum in the background (S63- 16454). A balcony view, from the audience right side, of the attendees looking at the stage (S63-16455). A view of the NASA Space Science Demonstration with equipment setup on a table, center stage and Space Science Specialist briefing the group as he pours Liquid Oxygen into a beaker (S63-16456). View of the audience from the balcony on the audience right showing the speakers lecturn on stage to the audience left (S63-16457). A view of attendees in the lobby. Bennet James, MSC Public Affairs Office is seen to the left of center (S63-16458). Another view of the attendees in the lobby (S63- 16459). In this view, Astronaut Neil Armstrong is seen writing as others look on (S63-16460). In this view of the attendees, Astronauts Buzz Aldrin and Walt Cunningham are seen in the center of the shot. The October Calendar of Events is visable in the background (S63-16461). Dr. Charles Berry is seen in this view to the right of center, seated in the audience (S63-16462). View of " Special Registration " and the five ladies working there (S63-16463). A view from behind the special registration table, of the attendees being registered (S63-16464). A view of a conference table with a panel seated. (R-L): Dr. Robert R. Gilruth, Hugh L. Dryden, Walter C. Williams, and an unidentified man (S63- 16465). A closeup of the panel at the table with Dr. Gilruth on the left (S63-16466). About the same shot as number S63-16462, Dr. Berry is seen in this shot as well (S63-16467). In this view the audio setup is seen. In the audience, (L-R): C. C. Kraft, Vernon E. (Buddy) Powell, Public Affairs Office (PAO); and, in the foreground mixing the audio is Art Tantillo; and, at the recorder is Doyle Hodges both of the audio people are contractors that work for PAO at MSC (S63-16468). In this view Maxime Faget is seen speaking at the lecturn (S63-16469). Unidentified person at the lecturn (S63-16470). In this view the motion picture cameras and personel are shown documenting the conference (S63-16471). A motion picture cameraman in the balcony is shown filming the audience during a break (S63- 16472). Family members enjoy an exhibit (S63-16473). A young person gets a boost to look in a Gemini Capsule on display (S63-16474). A young person looks at the Gemini Capsule on display (S63-16475). Dr. Robert R. Gilruth is seen at the conference table (S63-16476). Walt Williams is seen in this view at the conference table (S63-16477). Unidentified man sitting next to Walt Williams (S63-16478). (L-R): Seated at the conference table, Dr. Robert Gilruth, Hugh L. Dryden, and Walt Williams (S63- 16479). Group in lobby faces visable, (L-R): Walt Williams, unidentified person, Dr. Robert Gilruth, Congressman (S63-16480). Man in uniform at the lecturn (S63-16481). Astronaut Leroy Gordon Cooper at the lecturn (S63-16482). Astronaut Cooper at the lecturn with a picture on the screen with the title, " Astronaut Names for Spacecraft " (S63-16483). Dr. Gilruth at the lecturn (S63-16484). Walt Williams at the lecturn (S63-16485). Unidentified man at the lecturn (S63-16486). John H. Boynton addresses the Summary Conference (S63-16487). (L-R): Astronaut Leroy Gordon Cooper, Mrs. Cooper, Senator Cris Cole, and Mrs. Cole (S63- 16488). In this view in the lobby, Senator and Mrs. Cris Cole, with Astronaut Gordon Cooper standing near the heatshield, and Mrs. Cooper; next, on the right is a press photographer (S63-16489). (L-R): Astronaut L. Gordon Cooper and Mrs. Cooper, unidentified man, and Senator Walter Richter (S63-16490). (L-R): Eugene Horton, partially obscured, briefs a group on the Mercury Spacecraft, an unidentified person, Harold Ogden, a female senator, Senator Chris Cole, Mrs. Cole, an unidentified female, Senator Walter Richter, Jim Bower, and an unidentified female (S63-16491). In this view, Mrs. Jim Bates is seen in the center, and Senator Walter Richter to the right (S63- 16492). The next three (3) shots are 4X5 CN (S63-16493 - S63-16495). In this view a NASA Space Science Demonstration is seen (S63-16493). In this view a shot of the conference table is seen, and, (L-R): Dr. Robert R. Gilruth, Hugh L. Dryden, Mr. Walter Williams, and an unidentfied man (S63-16494 - S63-16495). HOUSTON, TX