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The Gemini Missions
    NASA started the Gemini program December 7, 1961 to extend the existing manned space flight program by development of a two-man spacecraft.  The program was officially designated Gemini on January 3, 1962.  It was named after the third constellation of the zodiac, featuring the twin stars Castor and Pollux.  There were a total of 12 flights in the program.
    The main objectives of the Gemini project were to subject two men and supporting equipment to long duration flights, which would be required for later trips to the moon or deeper space.  They also wanted to effect rendezvous and docking with other orbiting vehicles and to maneuver the docked vehicles in space.  Perfecting reentry methods and landing the spacecraft at a pre-selected landing site were two more main objectives for the program.  The final object was to gain more information about effects of weightlessness on crew members and recording the their physiological reactions during longer flights.
    Overall, the Gemini program was a great success for NASA as shown by their flight results.  All the major objectives and many more were met.  The only problem the program encountered was with a land landing in 1964 that was canceled, however, the precision control necessary to achieve the landing was demonstrated.
    The Gemini spacecraft itself was an enlargement of the Mercury capsule.  The project was often referred to as Gemini-Titan for the craft and the launch vehicle, a Titan II rocket, a more powerful rocket than the previously used Redstone.  While a Roman number designated each flight, only the first capsule was nicknamed.  Command Pilot Virgil Grissom named it the MOLLY BROWN in reference to his Mercury spacecraft that sank.

Gemini Program Flight Summary
Gemini Spacecraft Technical Drawings
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