Is the flag still on the moon?

Yes, several American flags planted during the Apollo missions are still standing on the Moon.

The Enduring Presence of Lunar Flags

While it's a common question, the fate of the flags left by Apollo astronauts has been clarified by modern lunar imagery. Contrary to some misconceptions, specific flags remain upright and intact on the lunar surface, even after decades of exposure to the Moon's harsh environment.

The Fate of Each Flag

Not all flags met the same destiny. The initial flag deployed during the Apollo 11 mission is believed to have been knocked over by the exhaust from the ascent module during liftoff. This experience informed subsequent missions, leading to adjustments in flag placement to ensure their stability.

For later missions, flags were intentionally positioned farther away from the lunar lander to prevent them from being affected by rocket exhaust during departure. This strategic placement proved successful.

Recent observations from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) have provided definitive evidence regarding the status of the flags:

• Apollo 11: The flag likely fell during liftoff.
• Apollo 12: The flag is clearly visible, still intact on its flagpole.
• Apollo 16: This flag also remains standing and intact.
• Apollo 17: Images confirm that this flag, too, is still upright on its flagpole.

These observations confirm that the flags from Apollo 12, 16, and 17 have withstood more than half a century of lunar conditions, including extreme temperature fluctuations, solar radiation, and micrometeoroid impacts. Their continued presence serves as a testament to the Apollo missions and human perseverance in space exploration.

Summary of Flag Status:

Lunar Exploration