ALS signed “Charles M. Duke, Jr.,” two pages, 8 x 10.5, NASA letterhead, November 7, 1966. Letter to J. Duane Upton, in full: "I am most happy to contribute my thoughts concerning our space program and its impact on mankind though to the latter I feel inadequate. It personally is an exciting and challenging adventure which I am fortunate to be associated with. It is extremely difficult for me to be definite about the overall or long range benefits of such an undertaking as our space program. We have not been at it for very long so many long range benefits are still not apparent, however, many immediate benefits are evident from the technological achievements. The impact on communications, and the increased knowledge of man's biological and physiological functions are two examples. As to our present program and its direction in the future, I believe we are taking a logical and well planned course, which is very similar to that which aviation experienced. As you know, our present national goal is to place a man on the moon and return him safely. After achieving this, I feel a period of human exploration and extended earth orbital flights will ensue so that we may refine our knowledge and increase our experience. Following this, I hope to set my sights on manned interplanetary flight." In fine condition, with a bit of subtle brushing to ink. Duke would go on to become the tenth person to set foot on the moon as Lunar Module Pilot of Apollo 16. A thoughtful letter from the future moonwalker on the potential of the American space program. From The Bill Lende Collection.
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