Rocket Men is a non-fiction book written by Robert Kurson, published in 2008. The book tells the incredible true story of the Apollo 8 mission, which was the first manned spaceflight to leave Earth’s orbit and orbit the moon. The book is divided into three parts, with each part focusing on a different aspect of the mission.
Part 1: The Crew
The first part of the book introduces the reader to the three-man crew of Apollo 8: Frank Borman, Jim Lovell, and William Anders. Each of these men had their own unique background and story, but they all shared a love of flying and a desire to explore the unknown. The crew underwent extensive training to prepare for the mission, including simulated launches and practice landings.
Part 2: The Mission
The second part of the book details the actual mission itself. On December 21, 1968, the crew of Apollo 8 blasted off from Cape Canaveral and began their journey to the moon. The mission was fraught with danger and uncertainty, as the crew had to navigate the treacherous waters of space and deal with a number of technical glitches. However, despite these challenges, the crew managed to successfully orbit the moon and return safely to Earth.
Part 3: The Aftermath
The final part of the book looks at the aftermath of the mission and its lasting impact on the crew and the world. The success of Apollo 8 paved the way for the rest of the Apollo program, including the famous moon landing in 1969. The crew themselves became national heroes, and their achievement was celebrated around the world. However, the mission also had a profound impact on the crew themselves, who were forever changed by their experience.
Conclusion
Rocket Men is a thrilling and inspiring tale of human achievement and exploration. The story of Apollo 8 is one that will captivate readers of all ages, and the book is a testament to the bravery and determination of the men who risked their lives to explore the unknown. Whether you are a space enthusiast or simply someone who enjoys a good adventure story, Rocket Men is a book that you will not want to miss.
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