Apollo 6 Spacecraft Preparing for Launch

Credit: NASA · Download full size image

Apollo Spacecraft 020 Command Module is hoisted into position for mating with Service Module in the Kennedy Space Center's Manned Spacecraft Operations Building. Unmanned mission.

Mission objectives: Demonstrate structure and thermal integrity and compatibility of launch vehicle and spacecraft; confirm launch loads and dynamic characteristics (Achieved). Demonstrate separation of launch vehicle stages (Achieved). Evaluate performance of emergency detection system in closed-loop configuration (Achieved). Verify operation of Saturn V propulsion, guidance and control, and electrical systems. (Not Achieved because of early cutoff of two of the S-II stage J-2 engines and failure of S-IVB J-2 engine to restart. Demonstrate performance of mission support facilities (Achieved). Posted on: 22 Apr, 2003