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How Tucson Mapped the Way to the Moon and Planets

Russell Mitchell

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Published in Under Desert Skies: How Tucson Mapped The Way To The Moon And Planets

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In the annals of space exploration, the name Tucson may not immediately spring to mind. But this small city in the Sonoran Desert played a pivotal role in putting humans on the moon and sending probes to other planets.

Under Desert Skies: How Tucson Mapped the Way to the Moon and Planets

by Melissa L. Sevigny

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Language	:	English
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It all started in the early 1960s, when the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) was looking for a site to build a new facility to support its ambitious Apollo program. Tucson was chosen for its clear skies, dry climate, and proximity to major universities and research institutions.

The new facility, known as the Lunar and Planetary Laboratory (LPL),quickly became a hub of space exploration activity. Scientists and engineers from around the world flocked to Tucson to work on the Apollo missions and other NASA projects.

One of the most important contributions made by the LPL was the development of the Lunar Orbiter program. These unmanned spacecraft were sent to the moon to map its surface and identify potential landing sites for the Apollo astronauts.

The Lunar Orbiter program was a resounding success. It provided NASA with the detailed information it needed to plan the Apollo missions and land humans on the moon safely.

In addition to its work on the Apollo program, the LPL also played a major role in the exploration of other planets. Scientists and engineers from the LPL developed the instruments that were used to explore Mars, Venus, and Jupiter.

The LPL's contributions to space exploration are still felt today. The laboratory continues to be a world leader in the study of the moon, planets, and other celestial objects.

The story of how Tucson mapped the way to the moon and planets is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation. It is a story that should inspire us all to dream big and to never give up on our goals.