Lunch Wagon at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (U.S.)
Launch complexes (Astronautics)--Florida
During Project Mercury, the program to launch the first American into space, astronauts would visit the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (AFS) in Cape Canaveral, Florida, and would often eat lunch at a lunch truck because of time limitations and lack of places to eat. This photograph shows Mercury 7 astronauts Wally Schirra (1923-2007), the fifth man launched in Sigma 7, and Gordon Cooper (1927-2004), the sixth man launched in Faith 7. This photograph also shows Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) manager Dr. Calvin D. Fowler and others getting lunch at a "roach coach" at the Cape Canaveral AFS during a visit for Project Mercury.
Original black and white photographic print: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Chronopoints
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14, Cape Canaveral, Florida
President John F. Kennedy Touring Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
High-profile projects, such as Project Mercury, typically get a great deal of attention from Presidential Administrations. This presidential visit occurred on September 11, 1962, a month before the fifth Mercury flight. President John F. Kennedy (1917-1963) toured Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) the day before he travelled to Houston, Texas, and addressed an audience at Rice University to proclaim that "we choose to go to the Moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard," thus beginning the American space program's effort to put humans on the Moon.
Original black and white photographic print, September 11, 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Fowler, Calvin D.
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14), where some of the United States' first astronauts were launched into space, had a heavily built concrete and steel blockhouse which housed the actual rocket firing button. This blockhouse was built to withstand a rocket exploding on or close to the launchpad, which can seen in the background of the third photograph. Two months before Leroy "Gordo" Gordon Cooper, Jr.'s flight on the Mercury-Atlas rocket named Faith 7, the launch site stood ready.
Original black and white photographic prints, March 15, 1963: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse, Cape Canaveral, Florida
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse Launch Tote Board
The Launch Tote Board at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) detailed the rocket launches carried out at the facility. Posted outside of the blockhouse, it showed the vehicle type, designation and launch date.
Original black and white photographic print, March 15, 1963: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Workstation Containing Analog Electronics in Rack at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
Used during the launches of the Mercury-Atlas rockets—from the first American to orbit earth, John Glenn (b. 1921), to the last Project Mercury flight with Gordon Cooper (1927-2004), Jr.—this was one of the workstations in the blockhouse at Launch Complex 14 (LC-14). Electronic equipment used in the LC-14 Blockhouse was placed in racks to maximize space utilization, similar to what one might see today in a computer server room. One main difference is that the electronics of Project Mercury era were analog rather than digital, and the displays and controls were analog as well, such as analog meters and knobs.
Rocket Monitoring and Launch Workstations at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
The Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) Blockhouse was where Mercury-Atlas rockets were launched using analog electronic equipment to monitor various aspects of the rocket. One might note that these Project Mercury workstations had no video screens, as there might be today, only analog gauges and meters to view conditions, as well as dials, switches, and buttons to issue commands to the rockets. This equipment was placed in electronics racks, similar to those used for computers in server rooms today, to save space and allow each workstation to have all the equipment to accomplish its function.
GD/Astro Greeters See Kennedy on Cape Trip
A newspaper article on President John F. Kennedy (1917-1963)'s visit to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) on September 11, 1962. Presidents typically use such visits to gain firsthand understanding of important programs. President Kennedy toured the Cape Canaveral launch facilities the day before he announced the project to place a man on the Moon.
Original newspaper article: "GD/Astro Greeters See Kennedy on Cape Trip." September 11, 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Skid Strip, Cape Canaveral, Florida
Cal Fowler and Others at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler with others at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14). Dr. Fowler is photographed second from the right. Dr. Fowler was the manager of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 during the final three launches of Project Mercury. From the blockhouse at Complex 14, after confirming the mission was a go, Dr. Fowler pressed the button to launch Wally Schirra (1923-2007), Scott Carpenter (1925-2013) and Gordon Cooper (1927-2004) into space aboard their respective rockets. He is pictured chatting with workers at the launch site.
A newspaper article published by The Plattsburgh Press-Republican on October 4, 1962. Dr. Calvin D. Fowler was the manager of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 during the final three launches of Project Mercury. In this newspaper photograph, he is shown sitting at the Launch Conductor's console in the blockhouse at Launch Complex 14 (LC-14), launching Wally Schirra (1923-2007)'s Mercury-Atlas rocket, named Sigma 7, into space. Dr. Fowler would go on to do the same for Gordon Cooper (1927-2004).
Original newspaper article: "A Great Trip in a Sweet Bird." The Plattsburgh Press-Republican, Vol. LXIX, no. 45, October 4, 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
The Plattsburgh Press-Republican
Astronauts' Biggest 'Booster': Button Pusher with Prime Job
A newspaper article by Peter Reich published in The Chicago's American. The article provides a contemporaneous account of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, manager of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) and launch conductor, whose job was launching astronaut Gordon Cooper into space on a Project Mercury rocket.
Original newspaper article: Reich, Peter. "Astronauts' Biggest 'Booster': Button Pusher with Prime Job." The Chicago's American, May 9, 1963: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
The Chicago's American
General Dynamics/Astronautics, San Diego, California
Gordon Cooper (1927-2004) was the sixth American in space and the fourth to orbit the Earth. Cooper flew in the Faith 7 spacecraft for Project Mercury. At the time, he was in space for 34 hours, longer than any American. With his second space flight in Project Gemini, Cooper led all astronauts and cosmonauts in total accumulated time in space. U.S. Air Force (USAF) Colonel Cooper was selected in 1959 as one of the Mercury 7, which was the first group of American astronauts, after a detailed examination of him physically and psychologically, and the successful achievement of the qualifying requirements. Before entering the space program, Cooper was an accomplished pilot, aeronautical engineer, and test pilot. In this self signed color photograph, Cooper is posed in his space suit standing next to a scale model of his spacecraft with the American flag behind him.
Original 8 x 10 inch color photographic print: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Cape Canaveral, Florida
A newspaper article about a meeting that occurred on October 9, 1962, before the launch of Walter "Wally" Marty Schirra, Jr. in Sigma 7 between representatives of the Aerospace Corporation; the Burroughs Corporation; Rocketdyne, Inc.; General Dynamics/Astronautics; McDonnell Aircraft Corporation; General Electric Company; the U.S. Air Force (USAF); and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NAS). Photographed, from left to right, are Jack Wiegand of the Aerospace Corporation; George Liner of the Burroughs Corporation; Major C. J. McCarthy of the Air Force's 6555th Aerospace Test Group; Lee Solid of Rocketdyne, Inc.; Major J. R. Mullady of the 6555th, Dr. Calvin D. Fowler of General Dynamics/Astronautics; Porter Brown of NASA; Ralph Gendielle of the McDonnell Aircraft Corporation; and John Savarie of General Electric Company. The racks of electronics and control consoles provides the backdrop.
Original newspaper article: "Pre-Launch Meeting." October 9, 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin "Cal" D. Fowler.
John Glenn Returning to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 After Mercury 7 Flight
As the third Mercury 7 astronaut, John Glenn (b. 1921) became the first American to orbit the Earth on February 20, 1962. On February 23, he returned to Patrick Air Force Base (Patrick AFB), accompanied by Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson (1908-1973), and was reunited with his wife Annie Glenn (b. 1920) and their children. Glenn, his wife, and Vice President Johnson then motorcaded to Cape Canaveral and participated in a parade through Cocoa Beach, Florida. Upon arrival at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (Cape Cananveral AFS), they greeted President John F. Kennedy (1917-1963), who had flown into Cape Canaveral, landing at the Skid Strip. From there, President Kennedy and Glenn were driven to Hangar S at Cape Canaveral, where the President presented him the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Distinguished Service Medal. They then toured Mercury Control Center and then greeted launch workers at Launch Complex 14 (LC-14). At the launch site, Glenn presented the President with a hard hat that workers wore when at the launchpad.
Original color photographic print, February 23, 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler and T. J.O'Malley Observing Project Mercury
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, T. J. O'Malley (1915-2009) and others observing Mercury-Atlas 9 (MA-9)'s spacecraft, Faith 7, for Project Mercury. Faith 7 was piloted by Gordon Cooper (1927-2004), on May 15, 1963. After the launch, the team assembled in the blockhouse to observe the mission on monitors. Dr. Fowler, who had just launched Cooper into orbit, is seated along with O'Malley, who had previously launchedJohn Glenn (b. 1921)'s rocket, Friendship 7.
Wally Schirra (1923-2007) was the fifth American astronaut in space and the third to orbit the Earth. On October 3, 1962, Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, who was the manager and launch conductor for Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14), confirmed a go for launch with the Project Mercury team in the launch complex's blockhouse and pressed the button to ignite the Mercury-Atlas rocket named Sigma 7. After his successful flight, U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander Schirra thanked Dr. Fowler for his efforts with a signed photograph.
Original 8 x 10 color photographic print: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Letter from General Ben I. Funk to Dr. Calvin D. Fowler (May 14, 1963)
After the successful completion of the final manned Mercury-Atlas flight (MA-9), General Ben I. Funk (b. 1913), who was the U.S. Air Force general in charge of manned rocket development, sent this letter of commendation to Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, who was the manager and the Launch Conductor for Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) on the final three Project Mercury flights. Dr. Fowler was tasked with pushing the button in the blockhouse to initiate the rocket's ignition. He was also responsible for the rocket's preparation and safety. Astronauts Scott Carpenter (1925-2013), Wally Schirra (1923-2007), and Gordon Cooper (1927-2004) successfully completed their missions because of Dr. Fowler's General Dynamics/Astronautics team preparation.
Original 1-page typewritten letter from Ben I. Funk to Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, May 14, 1963: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Space Systems Division Headquarters, Air Force Systems Command, United States Air Force, El Segundo, California
General Dynamics/Astronautics, Cocoa Beach, Florida
Letter from Alan Shepard to Dr. Calvin D. Fowler (August 2, 1963)
After Gordon Cooper (1927-2004)'s Mercury-Atlas 9 mission (MA-9), Alan Shepard's (1923-1998) scheduled Project Mercury's Mercury-Atlas 10 mission (MA-10) was canceled. Shepard wrote to Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, the manager and the Launch Conductor for Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14), to express his appreciation for some photographs that he had sent, and also to express his regrets about the cancellation of MA-10.
Original 1-page typewritten letter from Alan Shepard to Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, August 2, 1963: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Manned Spacecraft Center, Houston, Texas
Convair/Astronautics, Mission Training Center, Port Canaveral, Florida
Mercury-Atlas Management Team at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
A group photograph of the Mercury-Atlas launch management team. Left center in the back row is Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, who launched astronauts Scott Carpenter (1925-2013), Wally Schirra (1923-2007), and Gordon Cooper (1927-2004). The other men in the photographed are unidentified.
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse's Launch Conductor Console
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler seated at the launch conductor's console in the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (Cape Canaveral AFS) Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) blockhouse for Mercury-Atlas launch. Fowler would conduct the final three Project Mercury launches from this position.
Launch Control Room at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
During a launch of a Mercury-Atlas mission, these workstations were occupied by workers who monitored critical systems on the rocket and maintained lines of communications with essential locations around the world. Instead of digital readouts and big screen displays, this equipment used various gauges to display readings and dials and buttons to adjust equipment and the rocket. The monitors above the workstations allowed for a video feed on the launch vehicle at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (Cape Canaveral AFS) Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) blockhouse.
Electronic Equipment Racks at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
Electronic equipment at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (Cape Canaveral AFS) Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) blockhouse. The equipment was mounted in racks similar to the way modern computer servers are and was used to monitor the rocket during Project Mercury launches. Instead of digital readouts and big screen displays, this equipment used various gauges to display readings and dials and buttons to adjust the equipment and the rocket.
Rack of Electronic Equipment at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
Electronic equipment at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (Cape Canaveral AFS) Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) blockhouse, mounted in racks similar to the way modern computer servers are, was used to monitor the rocket during Project Mercury launches. Instead of digital readouts and big screen displays, this equipment used various gauges to display readings and dials and buttons to adjust the equipment and the rocket.
To assure proper checks and approvals by all appropriate individuals, small custom inked stamps, called hallmarks, were used by Apollo Project workers to ensure that checks were performed, and each worker who conducted one approved of the quality or conformance of the inspected item. These hallmarks are visible on equipment and reports of that era.
Original certificate: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
John F. Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island, Florida
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler Using Periscope at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
Launch Conductor Dr. Calvin D. Fowler posed for these publicity photographs on May 2, 1962, leading up to the launch of the Aurora 7 Mercury-Atlas 7 orbital mission, manned by Commander Scott Carpenter (1925-2013). These images are part of a series of publicity stills by General Dynamics/Astronautics division, the company responsible for Project Mercury vehicles and their launches, that were typically distributed to the media for their use. While in the blockhouse, the only way Dr. Fowler had any way of directly viewing the launchpad was through one of four periscopes. This allowed for quick direct and safe observations of the launch vehicle as it sat on the pad.
Original black and white photographic print, May 2, 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
General Dynamics Corporation
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler Using Launch Console at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
Launch Conductor Dr. Calvin D. Fowler posed for this publicity photograph on May 2, 1962, leading up tothe launch of the Aurora 7 Mercury-Atlas 7 orbital mission, manned by Commander Scott Carpenter (1925-2013). This image is part of a series of publicity stills by General Dynamics/Astronautics division, the company responsible for Project Mercury vehicles and their launches, that were typically distributed to the media for their use. Dr. Fowler is in his Launch Conductor's position in the blockhouse, where the button to ignite the Atlas rocket was located.
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler Visiting Launchpad at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
Launch Conductor Dr. Calvin D. Fowler posed for these publicity photographs on May 2, 1962, leading up to the launch of the Aurora 7 Mercury-Atlas 7 orbital mission, manned by Commander Scott Carpenter (1925-2013). These images are part of a series of publicity stills by General Dynamics/Astronautics division, the company responsible for Project Mercury vehicles and their launches, that were typically distributed to the media for their use. Dr. Fowler is standing in front of the Mercury-Atlas vehicle as it sits on the launchpad.
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Launchpad, Cape Canaveral, Florida
Liquid Oxygen TankING Equipment at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
Liquid oxygen tanking equipment at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) Blockhouse, mounted in racks similar to the way modern computer servers are, was used to monitor the rocket during Project Mercury launches. Instead of digital readouts and big screen displays, this equipment used various gauges to display readings and dials and buttons to adjust the equipment and the rocket. This controlled the liquid oxygen tanking operations on the Atlas rocket.
Television Control Equipment at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
The television Control equipment at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse, mounted in racks similar to the way modern computer servers are, was used to monitor the rocket during Project Mercury launches. Instead of digital readouts and big screen displays, this equipment used various gauges to display readings and dials and buttons to adjust the equipment and the rocket. This panel control the remote cameras located at the launchpad.
Launch Control Simulator Console at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
tHE Launch Control Simulator at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse. This console likely allowed the launch team in Launch Complex 14's blockhouse to practice countdowns under simulated conditions. This could have allowed drills for normal and abnormal conditions during the launch.
Playback Head Selector Equipment at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
Electronic equipment at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse, mounted in racks similar to the way modern computer servers are, was used to monitor the rocket during Project Mercury launches. Instead of digital readouts and big screen displays, this equipment used various gauges to display readings and dials and buttons to adjust the equipment and the rocket. Ampex made magnetic tape drives and recorders, which were used to record data and/or audio.
Astronaut Wally Schirra and B. G. MacNabb
Astronaut Wally Schirra (1923-2007) named his boat Sigma 7, after the spacecraft which took him into orbit. In the photograph, Schirra shows the watercraft to General Dynamics/Astronautics director of operations B. G. MacNabb at what is believed to be Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's industrial area near Hangar S.
Original black and white photographic print, October 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler Exiting Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler and an unidentified person exiting the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Blockhouse. The tote board, which recorded the launches from Launch Complex 14 (Lc-14), can be seen above them.
Astronaut Gordon Cooper with Management Team at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
In the first photograph, astronaut Gordon Cooper (1927-2004), pictured in the center, standing with National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) managers on the right and contractor managers on the left. Then men are pictured in front of the unassembled Mercury-Atlas vehicle at the launch site at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14. B. G. MacNabb, General Dynamics/Astronautics director of operations, is standing on the far left. When the Mercury 7 astronauts, such as Cooper, visited the launch site, they wore distinctively colored helmets so that they could be identified at a distance. Cooper, on such a visit before his flight, is viewing the unerected Atlas rocket from the gantry in the second photograph. The Atlas was America's first rocket capable of lifting a man into orbit. Faith 7's Atlas booster eventually lifted it into orbit, allowing Cooper to circle the Earth 22.5 times.
Original black and white photographic print, April 1963: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Launch Site, Cape Canaveral, Florida
Atlas Rocket Under Construction at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
In the final launch of Project Mercury, the Atlas launch vehicle sits on its side before being fully assembled and lifted vertically on the gantry. The Atlas was America's first rocket capable of lifting a man into orbit. Faith 7's Atlas booster eventually lifted it into orbit, allowing astronaut Gordon Cooper (1927-2004) to circle the Earth 22 and a half times.
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler Interviewed After Astronaut Gordon Cooper's Spaceflight
A contemporary newspaper article about Gordon Cooper's (1927-2004) spaceflight, including an interview with Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, the man who launched him. In particular, the article discusses Cooper's most recent spaceflight on the Atlas 130D, the process of launching spacecraft into outer space, the famous aviator Wiley Post, and Project Mercury.
Original newspaper article: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler and Wayne Reid at Launch Conductor's Workstation in Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler sitting at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14's Launch Conductor's workstation, is depicted ghere with Wayne Reid, of the Aerospace Corporation, around the time of Wally Schirra's (1923-2007) Sigma 7 launch.
B. G. MacNabb with Astronaut Gordon Cooper
B. G. MacNabb, General Dynamics/Astronautics director of operations, greeting Mercury 7 astronaut Gordon Cooper (1927-2004) during a practice, the day before a launch was scrubbed or launch day at the launchpad at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14. Cooper, walking in his air conditioned space suit, was scheduled to embark on his 22.5-orbit mission. This photograph was also signed by Cooper.
President John F. Kennedy with B. G. MacNabb at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
During one visit to the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14, President John F. Kennedy (1917-1963) talking with General Dynamics/Astronautics director of operations B. G. MacNabb. Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) manager Dr. Calvin D. Fowler can be seen to the right, behind the police officer in the foreground.
Astronaut Gordon Cooper at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Launchpad
While visiting the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Launchpad before the launch of the Faith 7 Mercury-Atlas mission, astronaut Astronaut listens to Günter Wendt (1923-2010) of McDonnell Aircraft Corporation, the man who supervised spacecraft preparation on the launchpad. Wendt was famous for his meticulous standards, which won the trust of the astronauts. General Dynamics/Astronautics Operations Manager B. G. MacNabb is seen in the center of the first photograph. In the second photograph, MacNabb is pictured on the left, Wendt is seen in the center, and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Manager Dr. Calvin D. Fowler is photographed on the right.
Launch Crew in the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Launchpad Blockhouse
T. J. O'Malley (1915-2009), who launched astronaut John Glenn (b. 1921) into orbit, is photographed on the left, and Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, who launched Scott Carpenter (1925-2013), Wally Schirra (1923-2007), and Gordon Cooper (1927-2004), is seen on the right. O'Malley, Dr. Fowler, and other unidentified members of the launch crew are photographed here at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Launchpad Blockhouse.
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler as a Test Conductor at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 11
Before being manager of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 and launching three astronauts into space, Dr. Calvin D. Fowler worked as a test conductor for Atlas missile tests at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 11.
Original black and white photographic print, December 1960: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 11, Cape Canaveral, Florida
Atlas Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Fuel Loading Test at Fairchild Air Force Base
General Dynamics/Astronautics conducting a fuel loading test for the Atlas intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) at Fairchild Air Force Base, near Spokane, Washington.
Launch Crew Members in Front of Sigma 7 Mercury-Atlas Launch Vehicle at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
A group of launch crew members in front of the Sigma 7 Mercury-Atlas launch vehicle at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 Launchpad. Photographed, from the left to right, is: an unidentified individual, of Pan American Safety
Don Pechi, Complex Superintendent for Pan American
Charlie Hodsden, Quality Control Supervisor
Calvin "Cal" D. Fowler, General Dynamics Launch Complex 14 Manager
George P. (last name unidentified), Missile Engineer
Nancy (last name unidentified), Secretary for Pan American
John Filer, Pad Supervisor for Pan American
(first name unidentified) Whitehurst, Second Lieutenant for the U.S. Air Force's 6555th Aerospace Test Group
(first name unidentified) Watson, Pa Supervisor for Pan American
Art Franklin, Complex Supervisor for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Mel Honeycutt, First Lieutenant for the Air Force's 6555th
and (first name unidentified) Meatti, Foreman for the General Dynamics Complex.
Original black and white photographic print, October 8, 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin "Cal" D. Fowler.
Launch Control Center and Vehicle Assembly Building at John F. Kennedy Space Center
The Launch Control Center (LCC) and the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) at the John F. Kennedy Space Center (KSC) in Merritt Island, Florida. The Apollo missions and later Space Shuttle missions were launched at the LCC and the Saturn V rocket was assembled at the VAB.
Launch Control Center, John F. Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island, Florida
Vehicle Assembly Building, John F. Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island, Florida
Warren III Atlas Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Site at Warren Air Force Base
The Warren III Atlas intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launch site, located at Francis E. Warren Air Force Base (Warren AFB), was built in 1960 to house the Atlas D ICBM. This "coffin" site is the current location of the Strategic Air Command (SAC) and was active from 1960 to 1964.
Francis E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler Trying on a Space Suit at John F. Kennedy Space Center
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, the man who launched three of the Mercury-Atlas missions to orbit the Earth, trying on a Apollo-era space suit at the John F. Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island, Florida.
Thousands of Hallmarks - One Successful Mission
To assure proper checks and approvals by all appropriate individuals, small, custom-inked stamps called "hallmarks" were used by Apollo Project. Each worker who conducted one approved of the quality or conformance of the inspected item. These hallmarks are visible on equipment and reports of that era.
George C. Marshall Space Flight Center, Redstone Arsenal, Huntsville, Alabama
Engineering Hallmark in Honor of Apollo 17
To assure proper checks and approvals by all appropriate individuals, small custom inked stamps called hallmarks were used by Apollo workers to ensure that checks were performed, and each worker who conducted one approved of the quality or conformance of the inspected item. These hallmarks are visible on equipment and reports of that era. This certificate was in honor of Apollo 17 and signed by the mission's astronauts: Eugene Cernan (b. 1934), Ronald Evans (1933-1990), and Harrison Schmitt (b. 1935)
Original certificate, June 7, 1972: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler Applying His Engineering Hallmark
Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, the man who launched the final three Mercury-Atlas missions, is photographed here, applying his hallmark stamp to what appears to be a commemorative poster during the Apollo era. To assure proper checks and approvals by all appropriate individuals, small custom inked stamps called hallmarks were used by Apollo workers to ensure that checks were performed, and each worker who conducted one approved of the quality or conformance of the inspected item. These hallmarks are visible on equipment and reports of that era.
Astronaut Gordon Cooper and Dr. Calvin D. Fowler Signing Rocket
Gordon Cooper (1927-2004) and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 launch manager Dr. Calvin D. Fowler sign the Atlas rocket, which would launch Faith 7 into orbit. Dr. Fowler and Cooper were at the General Dynamics/Astronautics factory in San Diego, California, to accept the Atlas booster. Cooper was to be the final astronaut of Project Mercury, as it paved the way for Project Gemini. Dr. Fowler would manage the spacecraft preparation and ignite the Atlas launch vehicle. Cooper would become, for a short time, the space endurance record holder.
General Dynamics/Astronautics Factory, San Diego, California
An Atlas core arriving at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Skid Strip. The core was flown from the manufacturer, Convair/General Dynamics, to Cape Canaveral, where it was unloaded and prepared for launch. This particular core was used for one of the four Mercury Atlas missions.
The stainless steel skin of an Atlas booster is displayed after recovery. This debris is suspected of being part of the Atlas used to boost John Glenn (b. 1921) with his Friendship 7 spacecraft into orbit. The skin is in such a degraded condition, because it is extremely thin, as the rocket maintained rigidity by internal fuel pressure, and the booster fell from a high altitude.
Astronaut Gordon Cooper Recovered After Splashdown
Gordon Cooper (1927-2004) completed his 22.5 orbit flight in the Faith 7 Mercury spacecraft by manually landing in the Pacific Ocean on May 16, 1963, closer than any other flight had landed with reference to the recovery ship. A dehydrated Cooper, still in Faith 7, is seen after the recovery aboard the aircraft carrier USS Kearsarge. Cooper not only set a record of staying in space for over 34 hours, but he would prove a trained pilot was an important ingredient in space flight.
Original black and white photographic print, May 16, 1963: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 13 Launch Tote Board
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 13 (LC-13) was the sister site of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) and was used for unmanned Atlas intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM), rocket tests, and Atlas-Agena launches. As was the tradition, a launch tote board, posted at the blockhouse, listing the launches and rocket configurations was typical for launch sites.
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 13 Blockhouse, Cape Canaveral, Florida
Major General Ben Ivan Funk Presents Award Citations to T. J. Joseph O'Malley and Dr. Calvin D. Fowler
Major General Ben Ivan Funk (1913-2012), of the U.S. Air Force, presents citations noting service to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) space program to aerospace engineer T. J. Joseph O'Malley and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) Manager Dr. Calvin D. Fowler. Photographed, from left to right, is O'Malley, Maj. Gen. Funk, and Dr. Fowler.
Time Capsule Placed at Mercury 7 Monument
The time capsule is located at the Mercury 7 Monument, which was placed at the entrance to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14). Contents of the time capsule are said to include John Glenn's (b. 1921) Marine Corps pilot wings, capsule blueprints, and photographic film documentation. Standing to the head of the site is a sculpture of the emblem of Project Mercury. The "7" signifies the original 7 Mercury astronauts, known as the Original Seven and Astronaut Group 1. The astronauts were Alan Shepard (1923-1998), Gus Grissom (1926-1967), John Glenn, Scott Carpenter (1925-2013), Wally Schirra (1923-2007), Gordon Cooper (1927-2004), and Deke Slayton. The marker, which was not in place when the photograph was taken, quotes President John F. Kennedy (1917-1963): "One of the most complex tasks ever presented to man in this country...the achievement of manned flight in orbit around the Earth." President Kennedy requested that the time capsule be opened 500 years, hence in 2464.
Mercury 7 Monument, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Cape Canaveral, Florida
Thor-Able Mission Being Prepared for Launch at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 17
The Thor-Able rocket sits on the pad being prepared for launch. These missions were launched from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 17 (LC-17).
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 17, Cape Canaveral, Florida
Apollo 8 Awaiting Liftoff at John F. Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A
Apollo 8 sitting on John F. Kennedy Space Center (KSC) Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) in the time leading up to launch. This was to be the first launch at Kennedy Space Center and at LC-39A. Apollo 8 was the first manned launch of the Saturn V rocket, which produced over 7.5 million pounds of thrust. Additionally, Apollo 8 was the first manned spacecraft to leave earth orbit and successfully complete orbiting of the Moon.
Original color photographic print, December 1968: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
John F. Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A, Merritt Island, Florida
SA-500F Full-Scale Saturn V Mock Up at John F. Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A
Before rolling a functional Apollo-Saturn launch vehicle, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) used a full-scale mock up made from "boilerplate" parts to test assembly and rolling the rocket to the pad. SA-500F also was used for a propellant transfer "wet" test although the rocket was inert. The foreground of the photograph shows the propellant tank farm and water pressure systems.
Original black and white photographic print, June 28, 1966: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Astronaut Gordon Cooper and Faith 7 Capsule at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
Gordon Cooper (1927-2004), the astronaut aboard the last flight of Project Mercury, observing capsule preparations at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14), as unidentified others look on. Cooper was to become the last American to go into space alone, while setting new endurance records for the American space program. Faith 7, the name his spacecraft was dubbed, launched successfully and circled the earth 22.5 times. While in space, Cooper was one of the early practitioners of conducting scientific observations in space.
Years after his historic Mercury-Atlas 9 mission, astronaut Gordon Cooper (1927-2004) autographed this photograph of himself for the U.S. Space Walk of Fame Museum in Titusville, Florida. During his Faith 7 flight, Cooper orbited the earth 22.5 times.
Original black and white photographic print, May 1963: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
U.S. Space Walk of Fame Museum, Titusville, Florida
Günter F. Wendt and Astronaut Gordon Cooper at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
Photographed on the left is Günter F. Wendt, who was in charge with launch pad preparations, with astronaut Gordon Cooper (1927-2004), photographed in a space suit, at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14). It is not known if this photograph was taken on launch day or for a practice day. Cooper successfully launched and completed his mission.
Astronaut Gordon Cooper and Dr. Calvin D. Fowler at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
Gordon Cooper (1927-2004) with Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14's manager Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, who would launch Cooper into orbit, observing the rocket delivery. In the final launch of Project Mercury, Cooper's Atlas launch vehicle sat on its side before being fully assembled and lifted vertically on the gantry. The Atlas was America's first rocket capable of lifting a man into orbit. Faith 7's Atlas booster eventually lifted it into orbit, allowing Cooper to circle the Earth 22.5 times.
Friendship 7 Lift Off at the Launch Pad at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14
John Glenn's (b. 1921) Mercury-Atlas vehicle (MA-6) lifting off the launch pad at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) on February 20, 1962. This was the first manned flight of a Mercury-Atlas spacecraft, which occurred after a few delays. Glenn would become the first American to orbit the Earth. Glenn was later feted in parades from Cocoa Beach, Florida, to New York City, New York.
Original black and white photographic print, February 20, 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Water Deluge System at the John F. Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39
The Water Deluge System at Launch Complex 39's Launchpad A and Launchpad B, located at John F. Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island, Florida. The Water Deluge System was used for two reasons: noise suppression and flame suppression. The system reduced both issues by releasing a torrent of water after the rocket was ignited, which reduced the sound of the rocket and damage to the launchpad from the intense heat. Launchpads A and B were built specifically for the powerful Saturn V rocket, thus there was a special need to address those issues.
Original color photographic print: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Launch Complex 39, John F. Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island, Florida
An artist's rendering of the docking of spacecraft in the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project (ASTP). The project was an experiment in cooperation and mating of different technologies from both the United States and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR). The Apollo spacecraft was launched from Launch Complex 39B at John F. Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island, Florida using a Saturn IB booster and docked to a Soyuz 19 spacecraft from July 15-17, 1975. Soyuz 19 was launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome, near present-day Tyuratam, Kazakhstan. The Soviet spacecraft was in orbit for five days. This successful mission led to cooperation on other projects including the International Space Station (ISS).
Launch Complex 39B, John F. Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island, Florida
Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic, Union of Soviet Socialist Republics
The American crew of the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project (ASTP) was composed of, from left to right, Astronaut Deke Slayton (1924-1993), first-time Astronaut Vance DeVoe Brand as Command Module Pilot, and veteran Astronaut Thomas "Tom" Patten Stafford as Commander. Brand was the only member of the original Mercury 7 never to fly previously. Slayton had been grounded because of an irregular heart beat since Project Mercury and was National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Director of Flight Crew Operations, but was given clearance for this flight. These three astronauts became the first crew to dock with another nation's spacecraft, the the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics' (USSR) Soyuz 19, thus establishing a precedent for international cooperation in space. This image was autographed for Dr. Cal Fowler (1929-2013), who had pressed the button to ignite the engines of three Mercury-Atlas missions.
Saturn V Rocket at John F. Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A
A Saturn V rocket rolled out to the Launch Complex 39A at John F. Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island, Florida. This particular rocket is suspected to be the full-scale mockup (SA-500F) used in 1966 to test vehicle assembly, fueling, and the crawler system of transporting it to the launchpad. The crawlers transported both the vehicle and the Launch Umbilical Tower (LUT) to the launchpad. In this photo, Launch Complex 41 is visible to the south.
Launch Complex 39A, John F. Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island, Florida
A Lunar Roving Vehicle (LRV) from Apollo 15 on the Moon. Manned by astronauts David Scott (1932-), Alfred Worden (1932-), and James Irwin (1930-1991), Apollo 15 was launched from the Launch Complex 39A at John F. Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island, Florida, on July 26, 1971. This was the first lunar mission equipped with a LRV, or Lunar Rover. This allowed astronauts with unprecedented capabilities to move around the Moon's surface, as they traveled 17.5 miles during their time on the surface. Apollo 15 returned to Earth on August 7.
Original black and white photographic prints, 1971: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
The surface of the Moon in 1975. Manned by astronauts David Scott (1932-), Alfred Worden (1932-), and James Irwin (1930-1991), Apollo 15 was launched from Launch Complex 39A at John F. Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island, Florida, on July 26, 1971. This was the first lunar mission equipped with a LRV, or Lunar Rover. This allowed astronauts with unprecedented capabilities to move around the Moon's surface, as they traveled 17.5 miles during their time on the surface. Apollo 15 returned to Earth on August 7.
Original black and white photographic print, 1975: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Prime Crew of the Tenth Manned Apollo Mission
A pre-launch publicity photograph of the crew of Apollo 16. This mission was the 10th manned Apollo mission and it was the fifth to put astronauts on the Moon. Apollo 16 launched from Launch Complex 39A at John F. Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island, Florida, on April 16, 1972 and returned on April 27. Photographed from left to right are Command Module Pilot Ken Mattingly (1936-), Mission Commander John Young (1930-), and Lunar Module Pilot Charles Duke (1935-).
National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Apollo 17 Crew with Lunar Rover Trainer and Saturn V
A pre-launch publicity photograph of the crew of Apollo 17 on September 30, 1971. This mission was the 11th manned Apollo mission, the sixth to put astronauts on the Moon, and the final mission of Project Apollo. Apollo 17 launched from Launch Complex 39A at John F. Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island, Florida, on December 7, 1972, and returned on December 19. Photographed, from left to right, is Command Module Pilot Ronald Evans (1933-1990), Lunar Module Pilot Harrison Schmitt (1935-), and Mission Commander Eugene Cernan (1934-).
Original color photographic print, September 30, 1971: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
A commemorative card featuring the crew of Apollo 17, the mission logo, a drawing of the Saturn V, and the slogan "The Beginning…Not The End." Apollo 17 was the 11th manned Apollo mission, the sixth to put astronauts on the Moon, and the final mission of Project Apollo. Apollo 17 launched from Launch Complex 39A at John F. Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island, Florida, on December 7, 1972, and returned on December 19. Photographed, from left to right, is Lunar Module Pilot Harrison Schmitt (1935-), Command Module Pilot Ronald Evans (1933-1990), and Mission Commander Eugene Cernan (1934-).
Apollo 8's Saturn V launch vehicle lifting off from Launch Complex 39A at John F. Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island, Florida, on December 21, 1968. Apollo 8 was the first manned spacecraft to leave Earth's orbit and the first to orbit another celestial body, the Moon. The spacecraft would was manned by Mission Commander Frank Borman (1928-), Lunar Module Pilot William Anders (1933-), and Command Module Pilot Jim Lovell (1928-). Apollo 8 returned to Earth on December 27.
Original color photographic print, December 21, 1968: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
A view of Earth from Apollo 8, the first manned spacecraft to leave Earth's orbit and the first to orbit another celestial body, the Moon. Apollo 8 launched from Launch Complex 39A at John F. Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island, Florida, on December 21, 1968.. The spacecraft would was manned by Mission Commander Frank Borman (1928-), Lunar Module Pilot William Anders (1933-), and Command Module Pilot Jim Lovell (1928-). Apollo 8 returned to Earth on December 27.
A view of the Moon from Apollo 8, the first manned spacecraft to leave Earth's orbit and the first to orbit another celestial body. Apollo 8 launched from Launch Complex 39A at John F. Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island, Florida, on December 21, 1968.. The spacecraft would was manned by Mission Commander Frank Borman (1928-), Lunar Module Pilot William Anders (1933-), and Command Module Pilot Jim Lovell (1928-). Apollo 8 returned to Earth on December 27.
Earth as Seen by Apollo 8 Crew in Moon Orbit
A view of Earth from the Moon. This iconic photograph was taken by the crew of Apollo 8, the first manned spacecraft to leave Earth's orbit and the first to orbit another celestial body, the Moon. Apollo 8 launched from Launch Complex 39A at John F. Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island, Florida, on December 21, 1968.. The spacecraft would was manned by Mission Commander Frank Borman (1928-), Lunar Module Pilot William Anders (1933-), and Command Module Pilot Jim Lovell (1928-). Apollo 8 returned to Earth on December 27.
Original color photographic print, December 24, 1968: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
An envelope for a photoset of Apollo 8 missions. The envelope includes a reproduction of the Earthrise photograph showing a view of Earth from the Moon. This iconic photograph was taken by the crew of Apollo 8, the first manned spacecraft to leave Earth's orbit and the first to orbit another celestial body, the Moon. Apollo 8 launched from Launch Complex 39A at John F. Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island, Florida, on December 21, 1968.. The spacecraft would was manned by Mission Commander Frank Borman (1928-), Lunar Module Pilot William Anders (1933-), and Command Module Pilot Jim Lovell (1928-). Apollo 8 returned to Earth on December 27.
Original envelope: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
The Historic Flight of Apollo 8: A Journey to the Moon
A history of Apollo 8, the first manned spacecraft to leave Earth's orbit and the first to orbit another celestial body, the Moon. Apollo 8 launched from Launch Complex 39A at John F. Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island, Florida, on December 21, 1968.. The spacecraft would was manned by Mission Commander Frank Borman (1928-), Lunar Module Pilot William Anders (1933-), and Command Module Pilot Jim Lovell (1928-). Apollo 8 returned to Earth on December 27.
Project Mercury Test and Launch Engineers in Front of Mercury-Atlas 1
The engineering management team in front of Mercury-Atlas 1, an unmanned test rocket Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCFAS) in Cape Canaveral, Florida, in July of 1960. This was the first test of an Atlas D booster along with a Mercury capsule. The test was a failure, as the rocket exploded shortly after launch. Photographed standing, from left to right, are Curt Johnson, Test Conductor for Launchpad 14; T. J. O'Malley (1915-2009), Test Conductor for Launchpad 11; Trav Maloy, Chief Test Conductor for CCAFS; Bill Taylor, Test Conductor for Launchpad 12; Walt Hicks, Data Analyst; and Jack Moline, Test Conductor for Launchpad 13. Kneeling, from the left to right, are Orion Reed, Complex Engineer for Launchpad 12; John Hughes, Complex Engineer for Launchpad 13; Bobby Danner, Missile Engineer for Launchpad 12; Dr. Cal Fowler (1929-2013), Missile Engineer for Launchpad 14; Ernie Baldini, Missile Engineer for Launchpad 11; Ken Wilcox, Design and Hanger Checkout; John Fox, Missile Engineer for Launchpad 13; and Bill Williams, Complex Engineer for Launchpad 14. O'Malley later launched John Glenn's (1921-) Friendship 7 rocket. Dr. Fowler later launched astronauts Scott Carpenter (1925-2013), Wally Schirra (1923-2007), and Gordon Cooper (1927-2004) into orbit.
Original color photographic print, July 1960: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Launch Complex 14, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Cape Canaveral, Florida
A chart showing the four original configurations of the Atlas family of missiles: Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM), Mercury-Atlas, Atlas-Agena, Atlas-Centaur. The Atlas booster was originally developed as an ICBM in the mid-1950s. First flown in 1957, the Atlas was eventually deployed to multiple sites for the U.S. Air Force. Early in the manned space program, the Atlas was selected to place the first American astronauts into orbit. Atlas was retired as an ICBM in the early 1960s and became a civilian launch system. Atlas continued to operate as a civilian launch system until 2004, when the last of the Atlas rockets, based upon the original design, was launched.
Original chart: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
General Dynamics/Aeronautics, San Diego, California
Dr. Cal Fowler and Lieutenant Colonel Swazey
Lieutenant Colonel Swazey, Site Commander 566th of Francis E. Warren Air Force Base, presenting Dr. Cal Fowler (1929-2013) a Missile Expert card. Dr. Fowler, who later launched Mercury astronauts Scott Carpenter (1925-2013), Wally Schirra (1923-2007), and Gordon Cooper (1927-2004) into orbit, was working at Warren AFB testing and installing Atlas Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBM).
Schirra Presented with Launch Key from Atlas Crew
A newspaper article and photograph showing Dr. Cal Fowler (1929-2013), on the left, presenting the launch key to astronaut Wally Schirra (1923-2007) Dr. Fowler, the Launch Conductor at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS)'s Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) in Cape Canaveral, Florida, used the key to launch Schirra's spacecraft, Sigma 7, into orbit on October 3, 1962. Mercury-Atlas 8 (MA-8) was the fifth manned space mission and was launched as part of Project Mercury.General Dynamics Astronautics, the firm which conducted the launch, had the key gold-plated and engraved with the following message: "Wally Schirra, MA-8 Orbital Launch, 10-3-62 7:15 a.m." The opposite side of the key stated: "Atlas, Launch Console Arming Key, Mercury Sigma 7, General Dynamics Astronautics."
Original newspaper article, 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Dr. Cal Fowler Presenting Wally Schirra with Launch Key
Dr. Cal Fowler (1929-2013), on the left, presenting the launch key to astronaut Wally Schirra (1923-2007) Dr. Fowler, the Launch Conductor at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS)'s Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) in Cape Canaveral, Florida, used the key to launch Schirra's spacecraft, Sigma 7, into orbit on October 3, 1962. Mercury-Atlas 8 (MA-8) was the fifth manned space mission and was launched as part of Project Mercury. General Dynamics Astronautics, the firm which conducted the launch, had the key gold-plated and engraved with the following message: "Wally Schirra (1923-2007), MA-8 Orbital Launch, 10-3-62 7:15 a.m." The opposite side of the key stated: "Atlas, Launch Console Arming Key, Mercury Sigma 7, General Dynamics Astronautics."
Original black and white photographic print, 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Wally Schirra and Others at Post-Flight Event
Astronaut Wally Schirra (1923-2007) at a post-flight event. Dr.Calvin D. Fowler, the Launch Conductor at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS)'s Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) in Cape Canaveral, Florida, presented Schirra with the key to launch Schirra's spacecraft, Sigma 7, into orbit on October 3, 1962. Mercury-Atlas 8 (MA-8) was the fifth manned space mission and was launched as part of Project Mercury.
Dr. Cal Fowler Receiving the Sapley Award
Dr. Cal Fowler (1929-2013), Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS)'s Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) Manager, accepting the Sapley Award for the "Best (Safest Complex during 1962)" on January 23, 1963. Photographed with him, from the left to right, are Ned Mullins, Complex Foreman; an unidentified Sapley representative; Jim Stackey, Complex engineers; George Page, Missile engineers; Dr. Fowler; and B. G. MacNabb, Operations Manager.
Original black and white photographic print, January 23, 1963: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Memento of Appreciation Presented to Dr. Cal Fowler
On June 28, 1965, during Project Gemini, General Dynamics Astronautics Manager Dr. Cal Fowler (1929-2013) was presented a memento of appreciation for 10 years as a test and launch conductor at with company. At the time, Dr. Fowler was manager of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS)'s Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) in Cape Canaveral, Florida. The Atlas-Agena unmanned launch vehicles lifted off from LC-14. The Agena upper stage was modified so the manned Project Gemini spacecraft could practice docking maneuvers with it in preparation for Project Apollo and the eventual moon landing.
Original black and white photographic print, June 28, 1965: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Dinner Dance in Honor of John Herschel Glenn, Jr. and Friendship 7 Program
A program to a dinner dance in honor of John Glenn's (1921-) orbital flight on Friendship 7 (MA-6), which occurred on February 20, 1962. The dinner, was sponsored by the Launch Team (which was generally composed of National Aeronautics and Space Administration, General Dynamics, the McDonnell Aircraft Corporation, and other contractor personnel) on April 23, 1962, at the Cocoa Armory, located at 308 North Fiske Boulevard in Cocoa, Florida. Signators include Freedom 7 astronaut Alan Shepard (1923-1998), the first American in space; Luge Luetjen; Manager for McDonnell Aircraft, Paul C. Donnelly (1923-2014), NASA Engineer, Manager, Spacecraft Test Conductor for Project Mercury; Glenn, the first American to orbit the Earth; Aurora 7 astronaut Scott Carpenter (1925-2013), the second American to orbit the Earth; Mercury 7 astronaut Deke Slayton (1924-1993); Sigma 7 astronaut Wally Schirra (1923-2007), the hird American to orbit Earth ; B. G. MacNabb, the Site Manager for General Dynamics Astronautics; Annie Glenn (1920-), Glenn's wife; Faith 7 astronaut Gordon Cooper (1927-2004), the fourth American to orbit Earth; , T. J. O'Malley (1915-2009), Manager for Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS)'s Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) and Launch Conductor for General Dynamics Astronautics.
Original 4-page program, 1962: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Gordon Cooper and Dr. Cal Fowler at Astronaut Awards Dinner
Faith 7 astronaut Gordon Cooper (1927-2004), the fourth American to orbit the Earth, with Dr. Cal Fowler (1929-2013), Launch Complex 14 (LC-14) Manager at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS) in Cape Canaveral, Florida. The two were photographed at a National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) awards dinner.
Original black and white photographic prints: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Atlas ICBM Installation at Francis E. Warren Air Force Base
Francis E. Warren Air Force Base, near Cheyenne, Wyoming, was one of the earliest sites of intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) deployment. In previous deployments at Warren (Warren I and II), the U.S. Air Force installed the Atlas D in non-hardened launch site. With the Atlas E and Atlas F, the Warren III was semi-hardened in order to sustain some of the pressure effects of an atomic explosion. These sites were called "coffin sites," because the missile lay horizontal in a semi-hardened silo and were raised vertical to be launched. Much of the ballistic testing for the Atlas ICBM was conducted at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS) in Cape Canaveral, Florida.
Atlas ICBM Fueling Test at Fairchild Air Force Base
Fairchild Air Force Base was the location for this early fueling test of an Atlas intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), which was likely an Atlas E or Atlas F. As one of the early locations for ICBM deployment, Fairchild AFB deployed Atlas E/F missiles in "coffin sites," because the missile was stored horizontally in a semi-hardened silo until launch. Much of the ballistic testing for the Atlas ICBM was conducted at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS) in Cape Canaveral, Florida.
Atlas ICBM at Francis E. Warren Air Force Base
Amongst the first operational intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) sites in the United States, Warren I was an above-ground "soft site" for launching the missiles at Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming. The missiles were stored at ground level and with minimal protection from a preemptive strike. The missile was the "D" variant of the Atlas missile, which was later man-rated for use in Project Mercury by National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Warren I had the missile clustered closely around the launch control blockhouse because this variant of the missile required direct guidance control.
Letter from Colonel William E. Todd to Dr. Cal Fowler (December 4, 1961)
A letter of correspondence from Colonel William E. Todd to Dr. Cal Fowler (1929-2013) dated December 4, 1961. In the letter, col. Todd invites Dr. Fowler, the former chief activation engineer, to attend ceremonies marking the completion of the U.S. Air Force's first Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Wing at Francis E. Warren Air Force Base near Cheyenne, Wyoming. The ceremony was held at the 566th Strategic Missile Squadron Complex 11 in Nunn, Colorado.
Original 1-page letter and map from Colonel William E. Todd to Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, December 4, 1961: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Adobe Flash Player
566th Strategic Missile Squadron Complex 11, Nunn, Colorado
A test launch of an Atlas Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) from an indeterminate location. In the photograph, one can see the engines ignited and liquid oxygen venting against the night sky. First flown in 1957, the Atlas was eventually deployed to multiple sites for the U.S. Air Force. Early in the manned space program, the Atlas was selected to place the first American astronauts into orbit. Atlas was retired as an ICBM in the early 1960s and became a civilian launch system. Atlas continued to operate as a civilian launch system until 2004, when the last of the Atlas rockets, based upon the original design, was launched.
Dr. Cal Fowler Presenting the Atlas E Model to Eugene Martin Zuckert
Dr. Cal Fowler (1929-2013), photographed on the right, presenting Secretary of the Air Force Eugene M. Zuckert (1911-2000) with a model of the Atlas E missile in honor of the completion and activation of the Warren III missile site. Warren III was a semi-hardened (the missile was some what protected by a concrete bunker) so-called "coffin site," where the missile was stored horizontal in a shallow bunker but erected for launch. The Atlas E Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) was significant because it had inertial guidance that allowed for launchers to be spread over larger areas.
Dr. Cal Fowler (1929-2013) and other unidentified workers at the Strategic Air Command (SAC), during the period that it was located at Francis E. Warren Air Force Base near Cheyenne, Wyoming. Dr. Fowler later transferred back to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS) in Cape Canaveral, Florida, and launched three of America's Mercury 7 astronauts into orbit in Mercury-Atlas missions.
A press release announcing that astronaut Gordon Cooper (1927-2004) was at the General Dynamics/Astronautics plant in San Diego, California, to inspect the Atlas rocket that would carry his Mercury mission into orbit. Also in attendance was Dr. Cal Fowler (1929-2013), who was the Launch Complex 14 manager and launch conductor at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS) in Cape Canaveral, Florida. The press release noted that Cooper was the first Mercury-Atlas astronaut to inspect the vehicle at the plant. Cooper would later ride the Mercury-Atlas vehicle into orbit on May 15, 1963, and circle the Earth 22 and a half times.
Original 1-page typewritten press release, May 1963: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Apollo 8 Crew: James A. Lovell, Jr., William A. Anders, Frank Borman
The Apollo 8 crew, consisting of Command Module Pilot Jim Lovell (1928-), Lunar Module Pilot William Anders (1933-), and Mission Commander Frank Borman (1928-). John F. Kennedy Space Center in Merritt Island, Florida, on December 21, 1968. Apollo 8 was the first manned spacecraft to leave Earth's orbit and the first to orbit another celestial body, the Moon. Apollo 8 returned to Earth on December 27.
Telegram from Lew Emmerich to Dr. Cal Fowler (May 15, 1963)
Dr. Cal Fowler (1929-2013) received this congratulatory telegram from Lew Emmerich, a General Dynamics Program Director based out of San Diego, California. Emmerich was involved in America's space program from Project Mercury to Project Apollo, and was described in his obituary as a "Pioneer of America's Space Program."
Original telegram from Lew Emmerich to Dr. Calvin "Cal" Fowler, May 15, 1963): Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.
Home of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler, Cocoa, Florida
Cake in Honor of John Herschel Glenn, Jr. and Friendship 7
At an event in honor of the return of astronaut John Glenn (1921-), who had become the first American to orbit the Earth, Henri Landwirth (1927-), a hotelier in the area, had a cake baked. The cake was between 700-900 pounds and shaped like the Friendship 7 Mercury capsule. Landwirth had the cake baked in mid-January of 1962 for Glenn's expected launch. However, Friendship 7 was delayed and did not launch until February 20. Landwirth had to improvise refrigeration of the cake in the delivery truck by using airconditioners, to assure it did not spoil. On February 23, Glenn arrived back at Cape Canaveral, Florida.
Original color photographic prints, February 23, 1963: Private Collection of Dr. Calvin D. Fowler.