The Apollo Lunar Module: A description of the construction of the lunar module used to make the first manned landing of a space vehicle on another planet

THE successful employment of the lunar module, the prime contractor being the Grumman Aircraft Engineering Corp., in the recent Apollo 11 mission has emphasised the vital role that it plays in the N.A.S.A. programme of space exploration. The module functions as a ferry to carry two astronauts from the lunar orbiting command and service module to the moon's surface, serves as a base for exploration during the lunar stay, and returns the astronauts to the orbiting vehicle. After the crew have transferred, the lunar module is again uncoupled and left in orbit round the moon. It consists essentially of two main components; the upper stage with a pressurised crew compartment, equipment areas, and ascent engine, and a lower stage to which is attached the landing gear, and contains the descent engine. Designed for complete self‐sufficiency, the module is equipped with the subsystems necessary for life support, navigation and guidance, attitude control, communications and instrumentation.