No nation ever demonstrated its aspirations and abilities as
dramatically as did the United States when it landed the first men on
the Moon, or as much in public: More people on Earth watched that first
small step on a foreign planet than had witnessed any prior event in the
ascent of man. While it is still too early to assess the full
significance of that remarkable undertaking, I think it is a good time
to look back on the total enterprise, while the images are still sharp,
and while those concerned are available to give testimony. Historians
have observed that ventures into uncharted waters are often illuminated
most vividly in the words of those who were there; one thinks of Caesar's
Commentaries, Bradford's History of Plymouth Plantation,
Darwin's Voyage of the Beagle. An interesting parallel exists
between the voyages of H.M.S. Beagle and the missions of Apollo:
One changed the course of the biological sciences, and the others are
reshaping planetary and Earth sciences. In this volume you will find the
personal accounts of eighteen men who, like Darwin, were much involved
in long and influential voyages.
New scientific insights are an important part of the legacy of Apollo,
as well as the worldwide lift to the human spirit that the achievement
generated. But there is a third legacy of Apollo that is particularly
germane today. This was the demonstration that great and difficult
endeavors can be conducted successfully by a steadfast mobilization of
national will and resources. Today we face seemingly intractable
problems whose resolution may call for similar mobilization of resources
and will. Husbanding the planet's finite resources, developing its energy
supplies, feeding its billions, protecting its environment, and shackling
its weapons are some of these problems. If the zest, drive, and
dedication that made Apollo a success can be brought to bear, that may
be the most priceless legacy of Apollo.
JAMES C. FLETCHER Administrator
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
