Dec 05

In Honor of NASA Mars Probe “InSight” – An Encore Presentation of Space Rocket History #46 – Mariner 4

Mariner 4’s primary objective was to conduct closeup scientific observations of Mars and to transmit these observations to Earth. Additional goals included performing field and particle measurements in interplanetary space, and providing experience and knowledge of engineering capabilities for interplanetary flights of long duration…

Mariner 4

Mariner 4

Launch on Atlas-Agena

Launch on Atlas-Agena

Mariner 4's Photo Path

Mariner 4’s Photo Path

Nov 28

Space Rocket History #280 – Apollo 13 – Carbon Dioxide

In a healthy spacecraft, the CO2 meter should climb no higher than 2 or 3 millimeters of mercury. When it rose above 7, the crew was instructed to change their lithium hydroxide canisters. If it was allowed to rise above 15, the first signs of CO2 poisoning would set in.

Carbon Dioxide Threatens Astronauts

Lovell & Swigert work with temp hose connections. CO2 scrubber in background

The CO2 scrubber

Nov 21

Space Rocket History #279 – Apollo 13 – Leaving the Moon – Part 2

In the satellite room of the carrier Iwo Jima, the communications man sat back and removed his headset. He knew, that Apollo 13 was in fact coming their way.

Seismometer left on Moon by Apollo 12 detects 13’s S-IVB stage impact

Ptolemaeus & Alphonsus photographed from Apollo 13

Moon photographed from Apollo 13 on its journey home

Nov 14

Space Rocket History #278 – Apollo 13 – Leaving the Moon – Part 1

Lovell’s disappointment with Kranz’s decision to not run another star check was quickly becoming academic since the time to conduct it was running out anyway.

Apollo 13 Saturn IVB upper stage impact point

Apollo 13’s view from Aquarius as it rounds the Moon

Leaving the Moon