13 Minutes to the Moon

Hans Zimmer discusses creating the theme music for a space-themed podcast. He explores the impact of music on imagination and the importance of coffee. The episode delves into the collaboration process and emotional connections in music creation, aiming to evoke deep connections with listeners. It also reflects on the wonder, drama, and emotions of the moon landing mission.

Reflecting on President Kennedy's Moon speech at Rice University in Houston, Apollo astronauts discuss challenges faced during the Apollo program, evolution of technology in space exploration, hurdles for NASA's future exploration, intense moments of Apollo 11 moon landing, and psychological impact of space travel.

Explore the historical significance of the audio recordings from Apollo 11's mission control. Hear the tension and triumph of the last 13 minutes of the lunar descent. Discover the technical details and challenges faced during the flight. Experience the intense final minutes of the Apollo 11 mission as the Lunar Module lands on the moon's surface.

Guests on this episode include Apollo 11 astronaut Charlie Duke, pioneer of mission control Poppy Northcutt, former director of NASA's Johnson Space Center George Abbey, and more. They discuss topics such as radio static issues during the descent, communication challenges faced by mission control, the significance of the computer in the success of the mission, the tense final descent to the lunar surface, and Capcom Charlie Duke's desk on July 20th, 1969.

Experience the nail-biting final moments of Apollo 11's mission as Neil Armstrong faces communication issues and dwindling fuel. Armstrong takes manual control to ensure a safe landing, showcasing the crucial partnership between human decision-making and computer assistance. Reflect on Armstrong's iconic moonwalk and stay tuned for future episodes delving deeper into this historic moment.

The 13 minutes begin. Eagle is going too fast. There are communications problems. We have met the people and heard about the Apollo 11 technology, now the descent is underway. This is the full story and it is a leap into the unknown. With Kevin Fong. Starring: Charlie Duke Steve Bales Don Eyles Courtesy of the Johnson Space Center Oral History Project: Neil Armstrong Gene Kranz Jay Greene Jack Garman Bob Carlton Theme music by Hans Zimmer for Bleeding Fingers Music #13MinutestotheMoon www.bbcworldservice.com/13minutes

Explore Michael Collins' crucial role as the third man in Apollo 11, navigating the spacecraft with precision and skill. Experience the tense moments of the powered descent to the lunar surface and the awe-inspiring sight of the moon up close. Delve into Collins' solo journey around the moon and his interactions with fellow crew members, highlighting the intense training and responsibilities faced by astronauts on this historic mission.

Explore the turbulent year of 1968 and how NASA took a monumental risk with Apollo 8, venturing further from Earth than ever before. Dive into the Apollo 8 mission, the astronauts' experience orbiting the moon, and witnessing the far side of the moon. Reflect on Earth's smallness and the iconic 'Earthrise' photo, as well as the impact of Apollo 8 on humanity's perspective of the universe.

Learn about the groundbreaking computer that guided Apollo 11 to the moon, the first digital portable general purpose computer. Explore the innovative work of MIT that paved the way for the digital age. Hear from key figures involved in this technological feat, including Margaret Hamilton and Eldon Hall.

Former NASA astronauts, flight directors, and engineers discuss the Apollo program, focusing on the tragic fire of Apollo 1 and the successful test mission of Apollo 7. They delve into the challenges faced, lack of leadership, and the emotional impact of the fire. The chapter also explores the vital role of the Apollo guidance computer in the moon landing.