CBS News Coverage of Gemini 6 Part 8

Summary

Key Points

• The Gemini 7 and 6 missions were planned as a combined effort, with the earliest next attempt for Gemini 6 scheduled for Thursday, 12 days after the initial launch date. 0:10
• The launch attempt on Thursday will have a launch window beginning at 8:43 a.m. Eastern Standard Time and lasting for 47 minutes. 0:29
• On the 13th day, next Friday, two launch windows will be available, starting at 7:14 a.m. and 8:49 a.m. Eastern Standard Time, each lasting 47 minutes. 0:47
• Astronaut Wally Schirra, the command pilot, demonstrated quick thinking and skill by recognizing the malfunction and initiating the shutdown sequence, preventing a potential disaster. 2:56
• There is minimal concern about damage to the launch pad because the rocket did not lift off, meaning the flames were contained within the flame bucket. 6:54
• The spacecraft and its systems are expected to be in good condition for the rescheduled launch, with batteries having a 30-day lifespan. 7:42
• During the aborted launch, the engine ignited but shut down automatically 1.6 seconds later, before it could generate enough thrust to lift off. 10:07
• Schirra and co-pilot Tom Stafford were prepared to use their ejection seats if necessary, but Schirra's rapid assessment made it unnecessary. 10:38
• This is the second delay for the Gemini 6 mission, the first being on October 25th due to the failure of the target vehicle. 11:07
• Astronauts Borman and Lovell, aboard Gemini 7, were concerned for their crewmates on the ground after witnessing the aborted launch. 11:52