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The Apollo program was not only about getting
to the moon and back, but making the best possible scientific
observations once there. "Do we take test pilots and teach
them geology or do we take geologists and teach them to fly?"
was the question. The answer, in typical NASA fashion, was to
create a team of both. This image of Apollo 17 Commander and
skilled naval aviator Eugene A. Cernan handing yet another sample
bag to Lunar Module Pilot and Doctor of Geology Harrison Jack
Schmitt on the Taurus-Littrow Valley floor, represents the epitome
of this exploration philosophy.
On December 13,1972, when Gene and Jack left the moon, they carried
with them
240 pounds of lunar samples-more than any other mission could
boast.
Signed by Apollo Astronauts Gene Cernan and Harrison "Jack"
Schmitt. |
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