I think a Moon base is not necessary to get to Mars, but I think it will be helpful. It would give you a chance to develop and mature some systems; long duration, deep space stuff; and you're close enough to get some help, via radio from Earth.

I'm proud to be an American, I'll tell you. What a program and what a place and what an experience.

I was able to look out the window to see this incredible sight of the whole circle of the Earth. Oceans were crystal blue, the land was brown, and the clouds and the snow were pure white. And that jewel of Earth was just hung up in the blackness of space.

I think a Moon base is not necessary to get to Mars, but I think it will be helpful. It would give you a chance to develop and mature some systems; long duration, deep space stuff; and you're close enough to get some help, via radio from Earth.

Roger, Tranquility. Be advised there are lots of smiling faces in this room and all over the world. Over.

Roger, we copy. It was beautiful from here, Tranquility. Over.

We've been to the Moon nine times. Why would we fake it nine times, if we faked it?