A mix of mundane and extraordinary, this planetary paperwork—Buzz Aldrin’s expense report and customs declaration for the moon landing—is out of this world!
Believe it or not, even after returning from the first moon landing, astronauts cannot escape U.S. Customs and Immigration! Upon splashing down in the Pacific, off the coast of Hawaii, the Apollo 11 crew—Buzz Aldrin, Neil Armstrong and Michael Collins—declared they brought back moon rocks and dust samples from their 1969 voyage.
Curiously, moon disease was “to be determined.”
With serious concern over what germs the crew may have brought back with them, they were promptly quarantined for three weeks after returning to Earth. These astronauts were viewed as potential threats. The family reunions, food cravings, and warm welcomes from wagging tails at home had to wait.
“Periodic examinations and blood tests monitored the physiological effects of their flight and recovery, while the doctors kept a close watch for any signs of exotic infection.” - Status Report, John McLeaish Comments on Crew, 7/28/69
The experience “quickly became oppressive,” according to a NASA history of the mission.
What a welcome! These days, most astronauts returning from space exit their craft almost immediately, although they still go through customs!
Filled with remarkable photos and over 1,500 all new—all true—stories to immerse yourself in, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Shatter Your Senses! is the newest book in the bestselling series from Ripley Publishing—so incredible you won’t believe your eyes…or ears…or nose!
Spark your senses here, on the blog, weekly for a feature from the 2018 annual, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Shatter Your Senses! and follow us on social media for a chance to win a copy, among other unbelievable prizes!
