Few People Know NASA Trained For The Moon Landing At This Secret Crater In Arizona
“One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”
We’ve heard those words so many times that hearing them doesn’t mean much to us. Humans are visual creatures, and sometimes seeing history is much more effective than reading about it. Luckily, there’s a place right here in Arizona where one of the most significant events ever, the moon landing, has been preserved. Astronauts trained for the mission at Cinder Lake, and craters they created to simulate the lunar landscape still remain. Check it out:
Home to a formerly active volcano, Cinder Lake contains gravel closely resembling that which can be found on the moon. For this reason, astronauts were able to train here prior to the legendary mission.
Using dynamite, scientists created a near-exact replica field of craters simulating the lunar surface. This allowed for rovers and other equipment to be tested with the utmost accuracy.
Many of the craters still remain today, albeit softened by erosion over the past 50 years. The area has become a popular four-wheeler destination, undoubtedly contributing to its destruction.
Close by is Sunset Crater, yet another volcano that first erupted nearly 1,000 years ago. While NASA didn't use it as a training ground, the incredible scenery alone warrants a visit. Beginning at the summit, a winding, 34-mile loop takes you on a 2,000-foot descent through lush Ponderosa Pine forests, striking red rocks, and unparalleled painted desert vistas.
A fact unbeknownst to many people, the famous Barringer Crater near Winslow was also used to prepare astronauts for the Apollo missions. The nearly 4000-foot-wide geological wonder sees millions of tourists each year, most having no clue about its historical significance.
Cinder Lake can be accessed by heading northeast from Flagstaff on US 89. Turn right on Forest Service Rd 776, following it until you reach the destination.
Have you ever seen any of these craters? Did you know NASA used them as training grounds?
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and changed her major twice (psychology, computer science, and finally criminal justice) before taking a leap of faith and dropping out to pursue a career in freelance writing.
Today, Katie writes for the Texas and Arizona pages of OnlyInYourState.com and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on the sofa with a hot cup of coffee, watching a crime TV show or scary movie.
