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.

Exploring the unique design and history of the Apollo Lunar Module, the challenges faced during the design process, the engineering decisions that defined its appearance, and the dedication of the Long Island engineers who built it under pressure. Delving into the weight reduction challenges, training of astronauts for piloting the module, and the protective insulation installed to safeguard the spacecraft and crew.

The unsung heroes who saved the day. "Here’s some 26-year-old kid, who could stop the lunar mission." An alarm appears on the on-board computer, but what does it mean? With Kevin Fong. Starring: Steve Bales Charlie Duke John Aaron Glynn Lunney Gerry Griffin Jerry Bostick Gene Kranz courtesy of the Johnson Space Center History Office Theme music by Hans Zimmer for Bleeding Fingers Music #13MinutestotheMoon www.bbcworldservice.com/13minutes

With no idea how to get there, the race to the moon begins – "we intend to win". To understand how the story ends, we need to start at the very beginning. With Kevin Fong. Starring: Michael Collins Steve Bales Margaret Hamilton Jim Lovell Charlie Duke Theme music by Hans Zimmer for Bleeding Fingers Music #13MinutestotheMoon www.bbcworldservice.com/13minutes This episode was updated on 14 May 2019.

The final part of our audio countdown to the launch of 13 Minutes to the Moon, with Kevin Fong. Lift off is on 13 May 2019.

Hans Zimmer has composed the 13 Minutes to the Moon theme music. It is the first time the Grammy and Academy Award winner has created music for a podcast.

Introducing 13 Minutes to the Moon, with Apollo 7 astronaut Walt Cunningham and former Apollo engineer Poppy Northcutt - the first woman to work as an engineer in an operational support role in NASA's Mission Control.

The countdown begins. The story of Apollo 11 – coming soon.