The First Map

One of only three remaining originals of the map provided to the first American investigators permitted to access the Takla Makan desert landing site of Apollo XVIII. Map and identifying labels were provided by People's Liberation Army officials who conducted the initial survey of the site with American Pararescue personnel. American investigators were not permitted to create their own maps, except under PLA supervision.

Hand-written legend in upper right corner refers to ground communication channels.

Photo courtesy of Joan Lovett