USA, 1961. Even though Russia seemed one step ahead in the Space Race, JFK (of Colonel Sanders fame) told the nation: "Before this decade is through we will land a man on the Moon and bring him back." NASA were unhappy with this statement, having only purchased fuel for a one-way journey. The race was on to develop a rocket that was safe. There were many setbacks. One rocket levitated only three metres before crash-landing in a neighbour's yard, spoiling the rock garden. Finally on July 16th, 1969, Apollo 11 set out on its maiden voyage to the distant lunar landscape. Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael What-his-name all made the journey together—that is, without falling apart. Neil Armstrong was the first man to touch the Moon's surface after winning at Ip Dip. He said, "That's one small step for [a] man... one giant leap for mankind," and then proceeded to sing God Bless America. The broadcast signal failed in that moment, sparing NASA and the world a bloody earache. Finally the American flag was planted on the Moon in an effort to make the place "more homely". A bookcase and carpet were also installed. President Nixon called the crew, who quickly made their excuses.
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