Introduction—First Steps: 50 Years after Apollo 11 (01:28)

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It has been 50 years since astronauts landed on the moon. This video examines the lunar mission, highlighting some of the people that made it possible.

Lunar Aspirations (03:27)

In 1961, President John F. Kennedy announces the goal of landing a man on the moon by the end of the decade. Michael Collins, Ed Fendell, Gerry Griffin, Jerry Bostick, and Bill Carpentier recall the announcement and their roles in the program.

Space Race (03:18)

The U.S. is at war in Vietnam and in a space competition with Russia. The Apollo program prepares for its first flight, but a fire erupts. Apollo 11 will make the first attempt to land on the moon. Collins and his wife avoid direct conversation about mission dangers.

Apollo 11 Crew (04:48)

Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Collins are a unique crew. Collins will pilot the command module while Armstrong and Aldrin descend to the lunar surface. Liftoff occurs July 16, 1969.

Lunar Landing (06:39)

The Apollo 11 crew views Earth from space; it takes three days to reach the moon. On July 20. 1969, Armstrong and Aldrin descend to the lunar surface while Collins remains in orbit. Armstrong becomes the first person to step on the moon.

Lunar Liftoff (03:24)

Collins describes the liftoff as the most fragile link in the chain. Ed Fendell recalls the pride of the nation.

Return to Earth (02:52)

Armstrong, Aldrin, and Collins return on July 24, 1969. Bill Carpentier recalls helping them out of the rescue net. The group remains in quarantine for three weeks before embarking on a world tour. Mission members reflect on the first flight to the moon.

Credits: First Steps: 50 Years after Apollo 11 (00:10)

Credits: First Steps: 50 Years after Apollo 11