The landing of the Apollo astronauts on the Moon was a magnificent technological triumph. These missions also ushered in a new era in our study of the solar system and the universe around us. For the first time in our history, we could study another world at close range. Astronauts stood on the Moon, photographed the small details of its mysterious surface, and set up instruments to probe into its interior. From orbit around the Moon, other sensitive instruments in the Apollo spacecraft measured the chemical composition, gravity, and magnetism of the Moon.

---

The Moon Rocks and What They Tell Us

Returning to Earth with actual lunar samples was the major scientific achievement of the Apollo program. Only by studying moon rocks with all the resources of laboratories here on Earth could we determine the exact nature of the Moon, unravel its long and complicated history, and learn how the Moon had recorded solar system history for 4-1/2 billion years.

The six successful Apollo landings yielded more than 2,000 different samples of the Moon - 842 pounds (342 kilograms) in all. From these samples we learned that the moon is not a uniform and monotonous world, but a complex and individual planet with its own unique history. Despite all their important scientific value, the moon rocks are far more than just specimens. They are the tangible symbol of a great achievement. They are interesting and exciting to look at. And in a very special way, they bring us close to other worlds.

---

The JSC Public Services Branch manages a traveling display program that consists of display samples that range from 70-160 grams in size, and are encapsulated in clear lucite pyramids. These displays are distributed to the NASA Centers throughout the United States who service an area or region around their Center. These display samples, available for loan periods ranging from two weeks to two months, are available to museums and planetariums, or any non-profit organization sponsoring a community or civic event. General requirements for this type of display sample are: The sample must be hand-carried to and from locations; must be secured in a safe or vault-type safe when not on display; and must be under constant surveillance while on display. All display sample requests are coordinated through JSC Public Services Branch; additional information on this program may be obtained by contacting:

Mr. Louis Parker
JSC Exhibits Manager
National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center
Mail Code AP
2101 NASA Parkway
Houston, Texas 77058-3696

Telephone: 281-483-8622
FAX: 281-483-4876
EMail: louis.a.parker1@jsc.nasa.gov