NASA's last mission to the moon, Apollo 17, was a historic event that marked the end of an era in space exploration. Launched on December 7, 1972, the mission carried Commander Eugene Cernan, Lunar Module Pilot Harrison Schmitt, and Command Module Pilot Ronald Evans to the moon's Taurus-Littrow valley. During their 12-day mission, the astronauts conducted a series of experiments, collected lunar samples, and deployed scientific instruments. Cernan and Schmitt made three moonwalks, exploring the valley and collecting over 110 kilograms of lunar rocks and soil. Apollo 17 was a success, providing valuable scientific data and paving the way for future lunar missions. However, it would be 45 years before NASA would return to the moon with the Artemis program.
