Rare 1:8 scale model of the Orbiting Solar Observatory, used by NASA as part of an outreach program during the late 1960s and early 1970s. The model measures approximately 10.25″ tall and features the stabilized solar oriented sail, spinning wheel portion, and three spin jet supply tanks. The capsule is set upon a black 8 x 8 base bearing an engraved plaque and manufacturing label, "United Industries, Inc., Everett 49, Massachusetts." Includes its original wooden 11 x 14 x 11 storage box, with white stenciling to the top and four sides: "M-9/10, OSO." The top of the box features a metal carrying handle, a NASA 'meatball' logo sticker, and two descriptive plaques: "Orbiting Solar Observatory, 1/8 Scale" and "63-MI." The interior of the storage box features a wooden support structure for the model, which bears felt tip notations: "OSO, M-9/10," and the model base can be secured by wing nut plates. In very good condition, with expected wear from use and storage, including: scattered scuffing and stains; original foam padding almost entirely disintegrated; sail no longer attached, but capable of repair; and supply tank arm pins missing, but again could be easily replaced and/or fixed. The OSO Program was a series of eight American space telescopes launched into Low Earth orbit by NASA between 1962 and 1975 using Delta rockets, with a primary mission of observing an 11-year sun spot cycle in UV and X-ray spectra. In the mid 1960s, the Advanced Orbiting Solar Observatory (AOSO) program was developed as a more advanced version: a polar-orbiting satellite system that would continuously monitor the Sun and surrounding environment; the AOSO program was canceled in 1965 due to budget constraints. Due to the size, weight and/or fragility of this item, special care will be taken when shipping this item. Please contact [email protected] for a quote.
