Last Human Moonwalk by Cernan and Schmitt
December 13th, 1972
December 13th, 1972

How Long Ago?
52 years, 3 months, 2 days ago
Location
Taurus-Littrow Valley, Moon
Category
Space Exploration
People
- Eugene Cernan
- Harrison Schmitt
Links & References
Tags
Last Human Moonwalk by Cernan and Schmitt
Eugene Cernan and Harrison Schmitt commenced the third extra-vehicular activity on Apollo 17, marking a significant moment as they became the last humans to step onto the lunar surface. During this lunar excursion, they conducted scientific experiments, collected samples, and took photographs to document their findings. The mission was pivotal in advancing lunar science and exploring the Moon’s geology, and it symbolized the culmination of NASA's Apollo program.
Cernan and Schmitt were the last humans on the Moon.
Apollo 17 was the final mission of the Apollo program.
The mission included a geologist for scientific insights.
Significant lunar samples were collected for research.
What Happened?
Eugene Cernan and Harrison Schmitt embarked on the third and final extra-vehicular activity of the Apollo 17 mission, which was NASA's last manned lunar landing mission. This Moonwalk commenced on December 13, 1972, and lasted approximately seven hours, allowing Cernan and Schmitt to conduct significant scientific activities and exploration. Apollo 17 was uniquely notable for its inclusion of a geologist, Schmitt, enabling a more thorough geological investigation during the mission's surface operations. Their Moonwalk occurred in the Taurus-Littrow valley, a region selected for its diverse geological features that could provide insights into the Moon’s history.During their EVA, the astronauts deployed scientific instruments, collected rock and soil samples, and took high-resolution photographs of the lunar terrain. A highlight of their activities was the collection of a large, orange-colored rock, which later provided important information about the Moon's volcanic activity and geological history. Their time on the lunar surface contributed to a wealth of data that scientists have continued to study long after the mission. At the conclusion of their walk, Cernan wrote his daughter’s initials in the lunar dust, leaving a personal touch on an extraordinary journey. As they ascended back to the lunar module, Cernan famously remarked that they were leaving the Moon for the last time, a profound moment that would resonate in human space exploration history. The mission successfully demonstrated advanced lunar exploration techniques, ultimately paving the way for future robotic missions to the Moon and beyond, focusing on planetary science and the understanding of the solar system.
Why Does it Matter?
The activities of Cernan and Schmitt during Apollo 17 represent the pinnacle of human space exploration efforts in the 20th century. Their work allowed for critical advancements in lunar science and showcased the possibilities of human exploration beyond Earth. The mission's success not only inspired generations to pursue careers in science and engineering but also set the stage for future international space cooperation and exploration initiatives.
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