[Apollo 8] The first human-taken photograph from the vicinity of another world:...

[Apollo 8] The first human-taken photograph from the vicinity of another world: Crater Langrenus from lunar orbit. Frank Borman, 21–27 December 1968. Printed 1968. Vintage chromogenic print on fiber-based Kodak paper [NASA image AS8–16-2615, inverted]. 20.3×25.4 cm (8×10 in), with “A Kodak Paper” watermarks on the verso (NASA / Kodak, Rochester, NY).

Literature: National Geographic, May 1969, pg. 618; Newsweek, 2 June 1969, cover; Time, 10 January 1969, pg. 43; The View from Space: American Astronaut Photography, 1962–1972, Schick and Van Haaften, pg. 97; Moon: Man’s Greatest Adventure, Thomas, ed., pg. 158; Apollo Expeditions to the Moon, Cortright, ed., chapter 9.5.

For three days the Apollo 8 astronauts journeyed outward toward a goal they could not see. The Moon would fill their view once they slipped into orbit around it. This historic photograph was taken by Frank Borman following the successful lunar insertion burn as humans were orbiting another world for the first time in history.

The 132-km Crater Langrenus on the lunar nearside is seen from an altitude of 240 km looking southwest. Borman used the 80mm lens and color magazine 16/A. Latitude / longitude: 9° S / 61° E.

Condition Report:Excellent condition.

Please notice: Supplementary material not included

Category:Photos ▸ Vintage photographs