Story perspectives

Today in History: Zond 5 first spacecraft to return from Moon

By Drooid · Sep 21, 2026, 10:36 AM UTC · How we work

12 2

Summary

Story summary

In September 1968 the Soviet Zond 5 spacecraft looped around the Moon, carrying two tortoises, fruit-fly eggs and plant specimens. After its circumlunar flight it splashed down in the Indian Ocean, becoming the first mission to return safely to Earth with living organisms from lunar vicinity.

1 of 1

Story summary

In September 1968 the Soviet Zond 5 spacecraft looped around the Moon, carrying two tortoises, fruit-fly eggs and plant specimens. After its circumlunar flight it splashed down in the Indian Ocean, becoming the first mission to return safely to Earth with living organisms from lunar vicinity.