This media is in the public domain (free of copyright restrictions). You can copy, modify, and distribute this work without contacting the Smithsonian. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's ...

This media is in the public domain (free of copyright restrictions). You can copy, modify, and distribute this work without contacting the Smithsonian. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's ...

Look at a picture of the Apollo 11 launch and you'll probably notice the rocket's pointed tip and the fire coming from the five giant engines in the first stage of the 36-story-tall Saturn V rocket.

As spacecraft, like the Apollo Command Module depicted in this artist's concept, enter the atmosphere, a plasma sheath engulfs them that can cut off communication signals with the ground. Disclaimer: ...

The Apollo missions showed exact science at work. Each part needed to be close to perfection from start to finish. NASA succeeded with 1960s tools—a remarkable feat. Though it was still cutting-edge ...