50 years ago today: Alabama-built Saturn V rocket powers Apollo 11 launch

—

July 16, 2019

On July 16, 1969, the Huntsville-built Saturn V rocket powered the launch of Apollo 11, which would see American astronauts land on the surface of the Moon four days later.

For the 50th anniversary of this historic launch, Governor Kay Ivey will deliver an address Tuesday night in Huntsville at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center.

While North Alabama continues to be a national leader in the space industry, including NASA’s Artemis program (which will land the first woman on the surface of the Moon by 2024) and future expeditions to Mars and beyond, Yellowhammer State residents can be proud of the storied history that led to Huntsville’s nickname as “Rocket City, U.S.A.”

Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04), a staunch ally of the space sector, posted a chill-inducing video Tuesday morning honoring this legacy.

Watch:

Alabama’s Apollo Legacy. 50 years ago today, as the world was watching, Walter Cronkite reminded everyone of the important role Alabama played in getting us to the moon. @NASA_Marshall @RocketCenterUSA @whnt pic.twitter.com/ePYWCp3r9Y

— Rep. Robert Aderholt (@Robert_Aderholt) July 16, 2019

A replica of the Saturn V rocket can be seen driving into Huntsville on I-565.

Sean Ross is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn

Recent in News

Sen. Tuberville calls on state lawmakers to pass PSC, utility reform package: ‘Focus on the future of the people of Alabama’

Sawyer Knowles — 3 weeks ago

U.S. Senator and 2026 frontrunner to become the next Governor of Alabama, Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn), voiced his support Wednesday for the multi-bill utility reform package moving through the Alabama Legislature. In a weekly call with in-state reporters, Tuberville urged lawmakers to pass the legislative package, saying the current Public Service Commission members who fail to […]

Orr, Garrett discuss education budget priorities in 2026 as ‘lofty money’ meets PEEHIP shortfall

Sawyer Knowles — 3 weeks ago

The Alabama House and Senate Education Trust Fund budget committee chairmen addressed the Business Council of Alabama’s Tuesday morning briefing, and discussed budget priorities, their working relationship, and the future of education in Alabama. State Sen. Arthur Orr (R-Decatur) and State Rep. Danny Garrett (R-Trussville) agreed that managing expectations will be a key challenge this […]