Gemini IX-A (Spacecraft)

Gemini IX-A was launched on June 3, 1966, with Thomas P. Stafford serving as commander of the mission and Eugene A. Cernan serving as pilot. The primary objective of the Gemini IX-A mission was to perform rendezvous and docking and to conduct extra-vehicular activity (EVA). Secondary objectives of the mission included rendezvous with an augmented target docking adapter (ATDA); systems evaluation and equiperiod rendezvous; and the execution of seven experiments. The mission's primary objective of rendezvous and docking was only partially achieved because the shroud on the ATDA failed to jettison. Instead, Gemini IX-A performed a number of rendezvous maneuvers, including a simulation of lunar module rendezvous. Gemini IX-A's EVA time was two hours and seven minutes. During EVA maneuvers, Cernan's visor became fogged, and he was unable to test the Air Force maneuvering unit. Finally, Experiment S-10, or Agena Micrometerorite Collection, was not attempted because EVA did not take place near the Gemini Agena target vehicle (GATV). Gemini IX-A landed on June 6, 1966.