The Unsung Journey and Final Fate of the MQF-001 for Apollo 13

Back in the 1960s, the idea of returning astronauts from the Moon raised serious concerns about the potential transmission of dangerous pathogens. As a result, the Mobile Quarantine Facilities (MQFs), including the one destined for Apollo 13 (MQF-001), were designed to safeguard both the public and the crew members from potential hazards. However, the story of MQF-001's journey and ultimate fate is filled with mystery and intrigue.

Introduction to MQFs

Four MQFs were specially fabricated for the Apollo program by MELPAR Incorporated of Falls Church, Virginia. These were not traditional trailers but were designed to provide a quarantine environment for returning astronauts. Each MQF bore the iconic Airstream logo, leading to some confusion over the years. Due to the success of the Apollo missions, particularly Apollo 14, which disproved the existence of dangerous pathogens on the Moon, the need for these facilities was eventually eliminated.

MQF-004: The Apollo 14 Prototype

MQF-004 was the prototype and the first to be used, supporting the Apollo 14 mission. Currently, this MQF is on display at the U.S.S. Hornet Museum. Interestingly, the front end of the MQF was removed, leaving it partially intact. Despite its altered state, it remains the only MQF one can walk inside.

MQF-003: Apollo 11's Quarantine Hub

MQF-003 was the initial facility used for the Apollo 11 mission. After years of public display at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, it was eventually recalled by the Smithsonian for a more prominent exhibition. Today, it can be found at the Udvar-Hazy Center in Virginia.

MQF-002: The Disappointed Dreams

MQF-002, originally intended for Apollo 12, had a tumultuous journey. It was later repurposed for use at a fish farm, where it remained for years. Eventually, it was rescued and restored, now making a home at the Davidson Center for Space Exploration, located within the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Alabama.

Mystery Surrounding MQF-001: Apollo 13's Destination?

The story of MQF-001, destined for Apollo 13, remains shrouded in mystery. Unlike its counterparts that found various homes or were eventually scrapped, MQF-001’s fate is unknown. It is believed that this MQF was intended to quarantine the Apollo 13 crew upon their return, but due to mission delays and other logistical issues, it was never used.

Final Destinations and Fate of the MQFs

Following the completion of the Apollo program and the realization that the Moon was not a breeding ground for dangerous pathogens, the need for MQFs diminished. At least one MQF (MQF-004) ended up at the Huntsville Space Museum. The rest were mothballed and, in many cases, eventually scrapped.

Conclusion

The fascinating journey and ultimate fate of MQF-001 shed light on the innovative and precautionary measures taken during the Apollo program. The mysterious disappearance of this MQF adds an extra layer of intrigue to the Apollo 13 story, leaving us to wonder about its current whereabouts and condition.