“This film provides an “eye-witness” perspective of the Apollo 11 mission that put a human on the moon. On the eve of the 40th anniversary, the National Archives celebrates this giant leap for mankind.”

This film tells the story of the historic first landing of men on the Moon in July, 1969. It depicts the principal highlight events of the mission from launching through post-recovery activities of Astronauts Neil Armstrong, Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin, and Michael Collins. Through television, motion picture and still photography, the film provides an “eye-witness” perspective of the Apollo 11 mission.

This film has received the following awards: the Certificate of Exhibition; Edinburgh Film Festival, 1969; Certificate of Merit, American Science Film Association, 1969; Gold Camera, U.S. Industrial Film Festival, 1970; and Ionosphere Aware, Atlanta International Film Festival, 1970.

This excerpt from Buzz Aldrin’s book “Magnificent Desolation” brings it to life:

Magnificent Desolation by Buzz Aldrin – Excerpt

See also: The technology behind the moon missions