On July 16, 1969, Apollo 11 launched from Launch Complex 39A at Cape Kennedy, Florida, at 9:32 a.m. EDT. The Saturn V rocket carried three astronauts: Commander Neil Armstrong, Command Module Pilot Michael Collins, and Lunar Module Pilot Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin.
The spacecraft entered an initial Earth orbit measuring 114 by 116 miles. After one and a half orbits, a translunar injection burn was performed, setting Apollo 11 on a trajectory to the Moon. The mission was the United States’ first attempt to land humans on the lunar surface.
Apollo 11 consisted of three main modules: the Command Module Columbia, the Service Module, and the Lunar Module Eagle. After entering lunar orbit on July 19, the crew prepared for descent.
On July 20, Armstrong and Aldrin transferred into Eagle and began their descent to the surface, while Collins remained in Columbia in orbit. The mission remained on schedule, with all systems operating within expected parameters during the journey.
