11-02-201711-02-2017
Skinner Auctions
Skinner AuctionsMarlborough MA
November 2, 2017 10:00 AMCalender
98

Taken by a Camera Aboard the Satellite ATS 3

Sell one like this
$615$500
Auction: American & European Works of Art - 3048MLocation: MarlboroughDate / Time: November 02, 2017 10:00AM

Description:

Taken by a Camera Aboard the Satellite ATS 3
The full disk of planet Earth, Satellite ATS 3, January 21, 1968. Stamped "RCA Astro-Electronics Div. 68-9-504C" on the verso. Vintage chromogenic print on fiber-based Kodak paper with 'A Kodak Paper' watermark on the verso, image size 7 1/2 x 7 7/8 in. (18.9 x 19.8 cm),unmatted.
Condition: Good.

N.B. In 1948, astronomer Sir Fred Hoyle prophesized that 'Once a photograph of the Earth, taken from outside, is available—once the sheer isolation of the Earth becomes known—a new idea as powerful as any in history will be let loose' (https://climate.nasa.gov/making-a-difference/). The entire disk of the Earth, beautifully photographed by the ATS 3 satellite and its revolutionary Multicolor Spin-Scan Cloudcover Camera on board 22,300 miles above the Earth at 95° W longitude. 'The color camera worked well,' Joseph R. Burke, Applications Technology Satellite Program Manager, reported, 'although it had been turned off for about a month to let unexpected gas accumulation leak out. The ground equipment still was being tuned to give a better color balance. Both coasts of both North and South America are visible as well as storms both north and south of the equator, and you can glimpse the Great Lakes through the clouds over Canada' (Cortright, p. 2).

Literature: Cortright, p. 2.
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.

Keywords

Kodak, Joseph R. Burke