In 1972, astronaut Charles Duke left his family photo on the Moon during the Apollo 16 mission.
This unique keepsake is accompanied by a heartfelt message for those who find it.
An astronaut left behind family photos and souvenirs from his journey to the Moon in 1972.
Charles Duke who is known as the youngest astronaut to set foot on the Moon, embarked on a mission that will forever leave his mark on history.
As he explored the lunar landscape, Duke decided to commemorate his amazing journey by placing a commemorative Air Force medal on the Moon’s surface. He also placed a photo of his family among the desolate lunar terrain.
Additionally, the photo was accompanied by a touching message for those who might stumble upon it in the future.
The caption on the photo reads, “This is the family of astronaut Charlie Duke from planet Earth who landed on the moon on April 20, 1972.”
Harsh conditions on the Moon can destroy everything
However, the passage of time and the harsh lunar environment have likely seriously affected the photo.
After nearly five decades of exposure to the bright sunlight, the image has likely faded and bleached by the intense lunar rays.
Until now, no one is sure whether Duke’s family photo and message are still intact or not because of the harsh conditions on the Moon.
Duke’s family photo is not the only poignant item left behind on the Moon by astronauts.
Many other artifacts were left on the Moon as a form of commemoration
Throughout the various Apollo missions, American flags were planted, marking each successful lunar landing.
These flags, once proudly displaying the stars and stripes, have likely been bleached by the relentless sunlight. Over time, they have transformed into white symbols of human achievement.
Other unusual artifacts were also placed on the lunar surface, including the ashes of US geologist Gene Shoemaker. Shoemaker’s ashes were interred on the Moon, fulfilling his wish.
Additionally, remnants of equipment from Apollo 14 can still be found on the lunar surface. This includes golf balls from Alan Shepard’s impromptu lunar golfing adventure.
Even 96 bags of human waste can be found on the Moon’s surface.
Scientists want to research those bags to see how living on the Moon all these years has transformed them into shape.