Flagstaff’s Lunar Legacy

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This post is sponsored by our partners the Visitors Center Bureau of Flagstaff, but our opinions are ALWAYS our own!

Did you know that Flagstaff has an impressive Lunar Legacy?  Every single person who walked on the moon trained in Flagstaff!  And next year July 20th, 2019 marks the 50th anniversary of the first man to walk on the moon.  Of course, Flagstaff is going to have a huge Lunar Legacy launch event!  Mark your calendars and make those plans – it’s going to be spectacular.

::Lunar Legacy Event Details::

  • July 20th 2019 at the Historic Downtown Orpheum Theater
  • Live Entertainment
  • Children’s Crafts
  • Special Guests
  • Presentations about Flagstaff’s role in preparing for the Moon missions
  • Mayor Proclamation recognizing Flagstaff, AZ Lunar Legacy Celebration
  • AND more!

So why did the astronauts train in Flagstaff?

One reason is the Sunset meteor crater and volcanic terrain.  This terrain was as close as geologists could get to the actual terrain on the moon. Geologists even blew up parts of the landscape to create even more craters for better training purposes.

Having the Lowell Observatory so close was an added bonus!  Astronauts were able to observe the moon at the Lowell Observatory – providing much-needed research for the upcoming lunar landings.  Artists worked with scientists and created very detailed lunar maps – which was mostly because of being able to view the moon so easily.

Not only did the astronauts train in and around Flagstaff, but they also developed instruments needed for their trip. 

Yes, even the lunar rover was test driven all around the craters!

And if you want to dig deeper into space, visit the USGS Astrogeology Science Center in Flagstaff.  They have a lunar rover vehicle on display!  Just be sure to make an appointment.  The USGS now supports NASA and other space agencies.  

Bring your entire family to Flagstaff and be a part of Lunar history. 

To learn more about our family’s trip through Flagstaff click here