The ascent stage of the Apollo 16 Lunar Module LM approaches the Command and Service Modules CSM during rendezvous, with a contrasting background of darkness and the Moon's Sea of Fertility Mare Fecundatatis. Taken from the CSM, the photo shows the aft side of the LM during a yaw maneuver. Note the buckled thermal panels. Messier and Messier A right center are among the most readily identifiable features on the surface below. While astronauts John W. Young, commander; and Charles M. Duke Jr., lunar module pilot; descended in the Apollo 16 LM Orion to explore the Descartes highlands landing site on the Moon, astronaut Thomas K. Mattingly II, command module pilot, remained with the CSM Casper in lunar orbit AS16-122-19533. The LM ascent stage over the Sea of Fertility. Before docking the LM ascent stage maneuvered to allow inspection by the CMP. The distinctive Craters Messier and Messier A are near the right edge of this view westward across the Sea of Fertility. Extensive ray systems, bright crater walls and the bright halos stand out sharply because of the high Sun angle. Highlands separating the Seas of Tranquility and Nectar to the west of the Sea of Fertility form the irregular horizon beyond the LM AS16-122-19536. Image was taken during Revolution 53 of the Apollo 16 mission. Original film magazine was labeled QQ,filmtype was SO-368 Color Exterior,80mm lens with a sun elevation of 84 degrees. Approximate Altitude was 113 km. Principal Point Latitude was unknown by Longitude 47.0E,with a camera tilt of 70 degrees and an azimuth of 255 degrees.
