Fantastic original 1:100 scale model of the Advanced Launch System (ALS) built by the George C. Marshall Space Flight Center's model shop, featuring three different payload modules ranging from small to large. Depending on the module installed on top, the model measures from 30″ to 43″ tall, and is set on a 12″ x 12″ base, with Marshall Space Flight Center Graphics and Models Branch plate reading: "Advanced Launch System, Scale 1:100." A descriptive plaque outlines the program's mission: "Advanced Launch System. Initial flights scheduled for 2000 with full operation by 2002. The Advanced Launch System (ALS) will revolutionize space transportation by reducing the cost of a pound of payload-to-low-Earth-orbit by 1,000%, while yielding a ten-fold increase in system reliability. ALS will provide a family of different-sized vehicles for launching payloads ranging from 15,000 to 400,000 pounds. Because of these unique advantages, ALS is essential to the Moon/Mars program." Housed in its large 34″ x 15″ x 15″ wooden crate. In fine condition, with a few paint chips to the smallest payload module and heavy wear to the exterior of the crate.
Advanced Launch System (ALS) was a joint study between the USAF and NASA which operated from 1987 to 1990 and aimed to develop a flexible, modular, heavy-lift, high rate space launch vehicle that could deliver payloads to Earth orbit at a tenth the cost of existing boosters. Initially intended to deploy the space-related elements of the Strategic Defense Initiative—sometimes called the 'Star Wars' program—the project was canceled after three years.
