Ham, the astro-chimp, was one of the first astronauts in the U.S. space program.

- The Mission: During the flight, Ham's capsule experienced technical issues, including an over-long burn of the rocket engine, which sent him higher and faster than planned. Despite these issues, Ham performed tasks during the flight, such as pushing levers in response to lights, which he had been trained to do.

-- Return to Earth: After about 16 minutes of flight, his capsule splashed down in the Atlantic Ocean. Ham was recovered safely, albeit a bit shaken.

- Post-Flight Life: After his historic flight, Ham lived for another 17 years. He spent much of his life at the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., and later at the North Carolina Zoo.

- Death and Legacy: Ham died on January 19, 1983. His body was preserved and is now at the International Space Hall of Fame in New Mexico.

Ham's mission paved the way for human spaceflight, demonstrating that it was possible for living organisms to survive the rigors of space travel. His contribution to space exploration is remembered as a significant milestone.