Gemini VIa and VII

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Gemini VIa and VII were the first spaceships to rendezvous in space. While this would accomplish one of the primary objectives of Project Gemini, many problems would have to be overcome. Gemini VIa was manned by Wally Schirra and Thomas Stafford. However, their first launch attempt failed when a plug fell out of the bottom of the rocket, starting the onboard computer. When no upward motion was detected, the mission was automatically aborted by the computer. However, Schirra and Stafford did not eject from the craft like the mission rules dictated. Schirra made this decision, and the crew walked off of the spacecraft. This was the second major problem for the Gemini VIa crew. The first occurred when an Agena Target Vehicle (see Gemini VIII) failed soon after launch which caused an abort of their first launch. Finally, on the third attempt, they launched into space where they met up with Gemini VII which was manned by Frank Borman and Jim Lovell. They launched before Gemini VIa and were in space for 14 days. Gemini VIa met up with the other craft, and they rendezvoused for a time. Gemini VIa soon left for re-entry and landing which was very accurate. Upon this re-entry and landing, another objective of Project Gemini had been accomplished by the crew of Gemini VIa. Project Gemini would continue with Gemini VIII.