Apollo 17 was launched on December 7, 1972, marking the final crewed mission of NASA's Apollo program, which had dramatically advanced human space exploration since its inception in the early 1960s. The mission was commanded by Eugene Cernan, with Harrison Schmitt as the lunar module pilot and Ronald Evans as the command module pilot. This mission was distinguished as it carried the first scientist to the Moon, geologist Harrison Schmitt, which emphasized the focus on scientific research during lunar explorations.

During their time on the lunar surface, Cernan and Schmitt conducted extensive geological surveys, gathered samples, and performed experiments over a period of approximately three days. They spent time at the Taurus-Littrow valley, where they explored the varying geological features, an area rich in orange soil and diverse rock formations. The mission included the use of the Lunar Roving Vehicle, allowing them to travel further from their landing site and collect data from multiple locations. The experiments and samples brought back from the Moon provided critical insights into the Moon's formation and geology.

The mission concluded with a successful re-entry and splashdown in the Pacific Ocean on December 19, 1972. This marked not only the end of the Apollo era but also a significant milestone in human space exploration that had captivated the world’s imagination. Cernan’s famous words upon leaving the lunar surface, “We leave as we came, and, God willing, as we shall return,” resonated deeply, symbolizing humanity's enduring spirit of exploration. Their safe return was celebrated globally as a testament to the achievements of science and technology during this period.