On this day in space! Oct. 11, 1968: Apollo 7 launches into space, NASA's 1st Apollo astronaut crew in orbit

On October 11, 1968, the Apollo 7 mission commenced its historic flight into space, marking a pivotal moment for NASA’s ambitious lunar exploration program. This was the first orbital test of the redesigned Command/Service Module (CSM) intended for use in the upcoming Apollo missions to the Moon. Astronaut Wally Schirra led the crew alongside Donn Eisele and Walter Cunningham during this crucial pre-flight evaluation. The primary objectives of the mission involved testing the CSM's systems, including navigation, communications, and life support equipment, all vital for future manned journeys beyond Earth orbit. Following a successful launch from Cape Kennedy, Florida, Apollo 7 completed its planned maneuvers and returned safely to Earth on October 22, 1968, providing invaluable data that paved the way for subsequent Apollo flights.