After the first orbit around earth Glenn had to switch to manual control because of a malfunction in the Friendship 7s' automatic control system. Mercury 6 had remained in orbit for 4 hours, 48minutes and 27 seconds and had completed 3 orbits around Earth.

 Friendship 7 splashed down a hours, 55 minutes, and 23 seconds after launch. Mercury 6 had been a success except for a few minor problems.