(Above) The Apollo 8 spacecraft still attached to the Saturn V third (S-IVB) stage, heads for the moon at a speed of about 24,300 miles an hour.
Fast Fact: Apollo 8, the first manned mission to the Moon, entered lunar orbit on Christmas Eve, December 24, 1968.
This painting was done by North American Rockwell for NASA.
(Above) The Apollo 8 spacecraft lunar module adapter (SLA) panels are jettisoned in this North American Rockwell artists concept.
After a history making day in lunar orbit, Apollo 8 astronauts fire the Service Module engine and head for home.
This painting was done by Robert McCall for NASA.
After 20 hours of lunar orbit, Apollo 8 astronauts fire the Service Module engine producing 20,500 lb. of thrust and head for home.