On this day in 1965, Gemini VII was launched from Cape Canaveral to become the 12th manned American spaceflight.

gemini-7_launch

Gemini VII, crewed by Frank Borman and Jim Lovell, set a record for the longest manned spaceflight at nearly 14 days, which was later broken by astronauts aboard Skylab. Gemini VII’s objective was to evaluate and solve some of the problems associated with long-term spaceflight, including nutrition, waste stowage and cramped conditions.

Gemini_6_7

Gemini VII was also the first spacecraft to rendezvous with another manned spacecraft in orbit–Gemini 6A, which maneuvered to within one foot of the hull.

gemini_7

Gemini VII set several records and was instrumental in the early development of the U.S. space program. Learn more about Gemini VII here.