Los Angeles Times

Commentary: 50 years ago, thousands of everyday heroes made sure America won the race to the moon

One of the marvels of the race to the moon in the 1960s were the Apollo spacesuits - blazing, iconic white on the outside and composed of 21 layers of nested fabric. Imagine putting on that many T-shirts and trying to do anything.

Those 21 layers were tough enough to stop a micrometeorite, but flexible enough to allow the astronauts to romp around on the moon and do the work that needed to get done.

Each spacesuit was a miniature spaceship, with room just for one.

They were designed and assembled by Playtex, the people who brought America the "Cross Your Heart" bra in the

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times11 min read
After Scandal, Movie Producer Randall Emmett Is Flying Under The Radar With A New Name
LOS ANGELES — On April 26, John Travolta debuted his latest film — “Cash Out,” an action thriller about a bank heist gone wrong. The trailer credits it as “a film by Ives.” “Cash Out” is the first and only project Ives has ever worked on, according t
Los Angeles Times4 min read
Andy Pages Caps Four-hit Night With A Walk-off Single In Dodgers’ Win Over Braves
LOS ANGELES — Two of the best teams in baseball convened at Chavez Ravine on Friday night, the National League West-leading Los Angeles Dodgers and NL East-leading Atlanta Braves opening a three-game series that Dodgers manager Dave Roberts promised
Los Angeles Times2 min read
Three Friends Drove From California To Mexico For A Surfing Trip. Then They Disappeared
MEXICO CITY — Last month, two brothers and one of their friends crossed from the United States into Mexico to explore Baja California's famous surf breaks. Pictures posted online by one of the brothers, Callum Robinson, 33, show the men gazing out at

Related Books & Audiobooks