First launch of the complete Apollo configuration: Saturn V vehicle, Command Service Module (CSM) and Lunar Module (LM). Sucessful docking in space of CSM and LM. First firing of LM ascent and descent engines in space. First transfer by U.S. astronaut from one space vehicle to another. First separation, rendezvous and re-docking of two spacecraft. First EVA by an astronaut (Schweickart) completely free of spacecraft life support equipment. Splashdown occurred on March 13, completing a flight of 241 hours, one minute (10 days, one hour, one minute).
Apollo 9 Launch Date: March 3,1969, 11:00 AM EST Launch Vehicle: Saturn V Crew: James A. McDivitt, Command Service Module Pilot: David R. Scott, Lunar Module Pilot: Russell L. Schweickart.