The Gemini XI mission from NASA’s Gemini Project set the current record for high-apogee earth orbit, performed the first direct-ascent rendezvous, and created the first intentional artificial gravity with the Gemini Agena Target Vehicle (GATV). In addition to these notable achievements, some of the other objectives included two extra-vehicular activities (EVAs), passive attitude stabilization of the combined Gemini XI-ATV craft, various scientific experiments, and a computer controller atmospheric re-entry. Charles “Pete” Conrad Jr was appropriately chosen as this mission’s command pilot, as he succeeded during his Gemini 5 mission and was among the best pilots in the second “New Nine” group of pilots. This skill would be integral to maneuvering the spacecraft for rendezvous. This mission was the first flight for pilot Richard F. Gordon Jr, who belonged to the third group of astronauts. The backup crew consisted of command pilot Neil A. Armstrong and pilot William A. Anders. Overall, the Gemini XI spacecraft closely resembled that of Gemini VIII to Gemini XII, as …show more content…
This mission proved that direct-ascent rendezvous was possible, which was before thought to be an unrealistic method of getting off the moon. The GATV craft on this mission functioned with greater success than on previous Gemini missions, allowing NASA to test the bounds of what is possible with these low orbit manned spacecraft. Furthermore, this mission implemented equipment improvements based on previous missions, such as including handholds and developing footholds. Neutral buoyancy simulation was also implemented due to the results of the EVAs on this mission and the previous Gemini missions. In all, this mission proved the effectiveness of direct-ascent rendezvous and greatly improved the quality of spacewalks for future