Fluttering flag

The Claim: The American flag appears to wave in the lunar ‘wind’

The science: If you look closely, you’ll notice that the flag’s edges are pulled taut. This effect, which was done purposely so as to not allow the flag to just hang flat, was created by inserting a stiff wire into the fabric. The ‘flutter’ was created as the astronauts worked to erect the flag. As the wire was adjusted, ‘Old Glory’ appeared to wave.