Born on February 5
Apollo 14 Lands on the Moon
Golf balls, Moon rocks and tree seeds.
Next: February 5, 2027
Where it comes from
This Story marks the anniversary of 5 February 1971, when Apollo 14's lunar module Antares touched down in the Fra Mauro highlands, the most precise Moon landing to that date, about 87 feet from its target.
How it's celebrated
There is no formal observance, but the anniversary is a good day to look up at the Moon, browse NASA's free Apollo photographs, or find a 'Moon Tree' grown from seeds that flew on the mission. Science centres and astronomy clubs often use Apollo anniversaries for talks and stargazing evenings.
Did you know
Shepard, at 47, was ten years past his first spaceflight in 1961; as he stepped down, mission control quipped 'Not bad for an old man'.
Read the full story of Apollo 14 Lands on the Moon
Star sign
Aquarius · January 20 – February 18 · Air sign
Original and independent, a little ahead of their time.