From the Earth to the Moon

From the Earth to the Moon is a science fiction novel by Jules Verne, published in 1865. The story is centered on the efforts of the Baltimore Gun Club, a post-American Civil War group of weapons enthusiasts, who embark on an ambitious mission to send a manned projectile to the Moon. The novel is known for its imaginative vision of space travel, combined with scientific calculations that, while not entirely accurate by modern standards, were groundbreaking for the time.

The story begins shortly after the end of the American Civil War, with the members of the Baltimore Gun Club, led by President Impey Barbicane, feeling bored and without a purpose now that the war is over. To revive their interest, Barbicane proposes an audacious plan: to construct a massive cannon capable of shooting a projectile to the Moon. This idea excites the scientific community and captures the imagination of the world.

Barbicane and his colleagues work out the scientific calculations and decide to build the cannon, called the "Columbiad," in Florida. The cannon will fire a projectile toward the Moon, with the aim of sending humans into space. The project garners international attention, and the necessary funds are raised to begin construction.

As the plans progress, a French adventurer named Michel Ardan proposes that instead of sending just a projectile, the mission should be manned. Ardan volunteers to be the first man to travel to the Moon. Eventually, Barbicane and his rival, Captain Nicholl, also decide to join the mission, forming a crew of three.

The Columbiad is built, and after extensive preparations, the launch takes place. The novel ends on a cliffhanger, with the projectile being fired into space. However, Verne leaves readers in suspense about the fate of the travelers, as they are on a direct course to the Moon but their ultimate success or survival is left uncertain.