Saturn V AS-501 Markings

AS-501, also known as Apollo 4, was the first Saturn V launched. It was a resounding success, leading two flights later to Apollo 8, the first manned launch and circumlunar flight. (All are NASA photos)

The markings scheme used on 501 (and 502) are different than the subsequent vehicles.

Overall view of AS-501

The S-IC (first stage), having been assembled at the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC), had different markings than those assembled at Michoud in Louisiana. The "S" in the "USA" is rounded on top and bottom and no serial number is applied (it would have been just to the right of the position markings) to the RP-1 tank.

Tail section of S-IC

The S-II (second stage) is identical to later units except for the camera targets spaced just under the forward interstage. These appeared only on this vehicle and the 500-F Facilities vehicle.

Forward area of S-II

Other than the CSM and Spacecraft Lunar Module Adapter (SLA) being Block I, there are no other KNOWN differences. This may change as we scrutinize more references.

Copyright 1997-2005 by John Duncan Comments and questions welcome. All photographs contained on these pages are the author's, unless otherwise noted. No unauthorized reproduction without permission.

Last update: March 1, 1998