Recorded by a Camera Aboard the Lunar Orbiter 1 Spacecraft

Description:

Recorded by a Camera Aboard the Lunar Orbiter 1 Spacecraft
The first view of the Earth from the Moon, Frame 101, High Resolution, Lunar Orbiter 1, August 23, 1966. NASA HQ caption on the verso. Vintage gelatin silver print, image size 7 1/2 x 9 1/2 in. (18.9 x 24.0 cm),unmatted.
Condition: Minor wear at corners of sheet.

N.B. Captioned by NASA as 'The world's first view of the Earth taken by a spacecraft from the vicinity of the moon,' this photograph was presented with Earth on the left of the Moon since the North Pole was at the top, but the world's media instinctively rotated the image to show Earth above. It is a sight that has only ever been seen by the later Apollo astronauts as they came around the far side of the Moon and faced the Earth. "By this reversal of viewpoint, we here on the Earth have been provided a sobering glimpse of the spectacle of our own planet as it will be seen by a few of our generation in their pursuit of the manned exploration of space,' said Floyd Thomson, former director, NASA Langley Center. 'We have achieved the ability to contemplate ourselves from afar and thus, in a measure, accomplish the wish expressed by Robert Burns: 'To see ourselves as others see us!'" (Cortright, pp. 84-85).

Literature: Cortright, pp. 84-85; Chaikin, Space, pp. 72-73; Newhall, pp. 118-19; Hope, p. 16; Thomas, p. 128.
Estimate $800-1,200


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.

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