Huge 12 x 12 x 2 heat shield test block of the Apollo Command Module from 1966. The block weighs 5.75 pounds and is stamped in the lower left “AVCOAT 5026-39HCG,” the company name and stock number, with five stamps along the bottom edge, which appear similar to proof marks. Affixed to the lower right corner of the block is a 3.5 x 2 plaque which reads, “Test block from heat shield of Apollo Command Module 1966.” AVCOAT was produced by AVCO corporation, with integration into the Command Module's Thermal Protection System by North American Aviation. These heat shields were designed to withstand temperatures in excess of 3200°C. Accompanied by a photocopied Skyline booklet, dated 1966, issued by North American Aviation, Inc., that shows the construction of the heat shield, how it was developed and tested, and more. While samples of Apollo heat shields have been offered in the past, usually paperweight size, this is the largest example we have seen offered. RRAuction COA.
