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Command Module, Apollo 11

Object Details

Summary
The Apollo 11 Command Module, "Columbia," was the living quarters for the three-person crew during most of the first crewed lunar landing mission in July 1969. On July 16, 1969, Neil Armstrong, Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin and Michael Collins were launched from Cape Kennedy atop a Saturn V rocket. This Command Module, no. 107, manufactured by North American Rockwell, was one of three parts of the complete Apollo spacecraft. The other two parts were the Service Module and the Lunar Module, nicknamed "Eagle." The Service Module contained the main spacecraft propulsion system and consumables while the Lunar Module was the two-person craft used by Armstrong and Aldrin to descend to the Moon's surface on July 20. The Command Module is the only portion of the spacecraft to return to Earth.
It was physically transferred to the Smithsonian in 1971 following a NASA-sponsored tour of American cities. The Apollo CM Columbia has been designated a "Milestone of Flight" by the Museum.
Alternate Name
Apollo 11 Command Module Columbia
Key Accomplishment(s)
First Lunar Landing Mission
Brief Description
The Apollo 11 Command Module, Columbia, carried astronauts Neil Armstrong, Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin and Michael Collins to the Moon and back on the first lunar landing mission in July, 1969.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Astronaut
Buzz Aldrin
Michael Collins
Neil A. Armstrong, 1930 - 2012
Manufacturer
North American Rockwell
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Materials
Primary Materials: Aluminum alloy, Stainless steel, Titanium
Dimensions
Overall: 8 ft. 11 in. × 12 ft. 10 in., 9130lb. (271.8 × 391.2cm, 4141.3kg)
Other: 1 ft. 10 in. (55.9cm)
Support (at base width): 12 ft. 10 in. (391.2cm) Overall capsule on stand height: 10'9"
Support (Stand): 2035.7kg (4488lb.)
Type
SPACECRAFT-Crewed

Featured In

  • Apollo 11
  • Collection Highlights at the National Air and Space Museum in DC
  • Digital Backgrounds
  • Human Spaceflight
  • Open Access Highlights
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International media Interoperability Framework
IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and media viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. Visit the IIIF page to learn more.
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3D Model
3D Model
Metal, conical capsule with two small windows and open hatchway.

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