Pursuing Primary Sources
Primary Source Examples: NASA
"Richard (Dick) Nafzger with Apollo data tape" This link opens in a new window by NASA Goddard Photo and Video This link opens in a new window is licensed under CC BY 2.0 This link opens in a new window
The photo above of Nafzger holding the memorex spool is a primary source. It is original evidence of the moment pictured. The memorex spool is also a primary source. It held a recording of the Apollo television broadcast. NASA erased the original recordings of the moon landing to reuse them for other projects (Fox, 2009). While this memorex spool is historically significant, it no longer holds the broadcast recording.
- Richard L. Nafzger interviewed by Sandra Johnson. Greenbelt, Maryland – 12 June 2013 This link opens in a neNASA Headquarters Oral History Project Edited Oral History Transcript
The interview transcript linked above is also a primary source. This interview occurred in person. We want to be aware of how different source formats affect our understanding. We might gain a slightly different understanding from a video or audio recording of this interview. The transcript is still original evidence, but it has been translated and edited. It is important to note when primary sources have been mediated or modified.