during a test launch the latest version of the rocket exploded shortly after liftoff. meanwhile in the u.s. nasa sought to personalize the space program by publishing photos of the astronauts with their families. as the scheduled date of the moon launch approached people around the world found a new interest in space. huge crowds gathered around the launch site the visitors were in a festive mood. on july 16th neil armstrong buzz aldrin. and michael collins make their final preparations.