Apollo-era Hasselblad 70 mm EL Data camera intended for application on the lunar surface, “P/N SEB 33100040-301, S/N 1038,” with attached film magazine, “P/N 33101018-301, S/N 1039,” as well as a Carl Zeiss 80 mm lens. Back of the magazine bears two labels which read, “Earth Obs,” and “IFO2,” as well as two small squares of Velcro. Accompanied by a letter of authenticity from NASA Aerial, Instrumentation and Motion Picture photographer Dick Williamson, which reads, in part: “I have examined the 70 mm Hasselblad camera…the attached film magazine…and the Carl Zeiss 80 mm lens…This equipment was made by Hasselblad exclusively for NASA’s use on the Apollo lunar program. I feel certain that this camera flew in the Apollo command service module during one or more lunar flights…" Flown provenance has not been positively established by RR Auction.
There are also several distinctive features and markings on the equipment: 1) The camera contains a ‘reso plate,’ which is an exclusive feature of lunar cameras. It is a glass plate that creates small horizontal and vertical crossed lines in the photograph, 2) There are two pieces of white Velcro on the back of the film magazine that were used to attach the magazine to a firm surface in the command service module…and 3) the magazine is marked ‘IFO2,’ and ‘EARTH OBS’ to indicate its use.” In fine condition, with scattered light wear. RRAuction COA.
