Gemini 6’s launch put it 1175 kilometers (730 miles) behind Gemini 7 in an orbit which varied from 161 to 272 kilometers (100 to 169 miles) in height. By flying in a lower altitude orbit, Gemini 6 astronauts Wally Schirra and Thomas Stafford circled the Earth at a higher velocity, slowing down as they moved to match speed with Gemini 7 at the higher orbit. Finally, Schirra jockeyed the Gemini 6 spacecraft to within 30 centimeters (1 foot) from Gemini 7.
They stayed in formation for four revolutions while all four pilots practiced maneuvering. Then Gemini 6 broke off and reentered, splashing down on December 16, 1965.
Gemini 7 went on to complete its 14-day mission which set a record for the longest U.S.-manned space flight which stood until the first Skylab mission. Gemini 7 splashed down on December 18.
Prime contractor for Gemini was the McDonnell Aircraft Company.
Gemini 7 is from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
84. The Gemini spacecraft.
Rendezvous and Recovery Section Ejection Seat Adapter Equipment Section Reaction Control System Section Cabin Retrograde Section