Apollo 11 Lunar Module Ascent Stage Photographed From Command Module

Apollo 11 Lunar Module ascent stage photographed from Command Module, July 21, 1969. The Apollo 11 Lunar Module, with astronauts Neil A. Armstrong and Edwin E. Aldrin Jr. aboard, is photographed from the Command and Service Modules. This view is looking west with the Earth rising above the lunar horizon. Astronaut Michael Collins piloted the Command/Service Module in lunar orbit while Armstrong and Aldrin explored the Moon. The Lunar Module is approaching from below. The mare area [huge dry plain on the surface of the Moon] in the background is Smyth's Sea. At right center is International Astronomical Union crater no. 189. Artist Michael Collins. (Photo by Heritage Space/Heritage Images via Getty Images)