The Beauty of Space: Vintage NASA Photos
Description:
Unidentified Photographer
The 'Angry Alligator' over the Earth, Gemini 9-A, June 1966. Numbered 'NASA S-66-37923' (NASA MSC) in red on the recto u.l. margin. Vintage chromogenic print on fiber-based Kodak paper with 'A Kodak Paper' watermark on the verso, image size 7 1/4 x 9 1/2 in. (18.3 x 24.0 cm),unmatted.
Condition: Good.
N.B. The protective cover of the docking adapter on the Agena Vehicle failed to detach after launch and prevented the docking of the two spacecrafts, creating jaws that looked, in Tom Stafford's words, 'like an angry alligator.' Eugene Cernan noted that 'As we approached it we could see something glisten in the sunshine many miles away. We didn't know what we were going to find; we were hoping not to see that shroud at all. Every time we activated that docking target--the collar that we were to dock with--it would relieve tension on that band and the jaws would open and close' (Schick and Van Haaften, p. 61).
Literature: Hope, p. 69.
Estimate $500-700
The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.
Keywords
Kodak, Tom Stafford, Van Haaften, Schick HaaftenRobin S.R. Starr
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