Upper section of a meteorological sounding rocket launched from the Cape's Launch Complex 43 on January 5, 1968, measuring an overall 49″ long and 3″ in diameter. The weather rocket was fired (liftoff button pushed) by veteran aerospace journalist Mary Bubb under the supervision of Pan American World Airways, which was the base contract operator for the Cape throughout the 1960s and 70s. Includes a certificate presented to Bubb signed by a test engineer and the manager of Range Meteorological systems, in part: "Pan American World Airways…Awards this certificate to Mrs. Mary E. Bubb for successfully launching a meteorological rocket at Complex 43, Cape Kennedy, Florida, 5 January 1968." Also included is the rocket's original label from Atlantic Research Corp. in Alexandria, Virginia, its plastic nose cap removed before liftoff, and a card inscribed by KSC director Kurt Debus, "With best wishes, Kurt H. Debus." In very good condition, with expected wear from firing use. From the collection of aerospace memorabilia specialist Ken Havekotte. Bubb was a noted space journalist who covered the Mercury, Gemini, Apollo, and Space Shuttle programs for a variety of news services. A unique piece with superb provenance, offering the rare opportunity to own an actual rocket fired at Cape Canaveral.
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