Discover Mieczysław Bekker’s journey from Poland to the Moon, designing the innovative Lunar Roving Vehicle for NASA.
On July 20, 1969, humanity reached a new milestone as Apollo 11 landed on the Moon. Shortly after, the need for a lunar vehicle became evident. This vehicle, essential for transporting equipment and samples, was designed by Polish engineer Mieczysław Bekker.
The Lunar Roving Vehicle
Bekker, who began his work on the lunar rover in 1961, led the development of the Lunar Roving Vehicle (LRV) with General Motors and Boeing. The LRV, featuring Bekker’s innovative suspension system, was delivered to NASA in March 1971 and made its debut on the Moon during Apollo 15 in July 1971. It significantly extended the range and capabilities of lunar exploration.
Bekker’s Legacy
Mieczysław Bekker, born in Strzyżów, Poland, in 1905, was a pioneering figure in terramechanics. Despite facing political obstacles, his work remains influential in vehicle design and lunar exploration. He passed away in Santa Barbara in 1989.