Flown brass-milled two cell penlight issued to Apollo 17 commander Gene Cernan and used by Jack Schmidt during the mission. Gold penlight measures 5″ long and labeled on the handle, “ACR FA-5, S/N 2058, Date of Mfg. 2/70.” Light is shadowboxed and framed to an overall size of 10.5 x 18, along with a March 13, 1976, TLS signed by Cernan, as well as his wife and daughter, presenting the penlight as a Bar Mitzvah gift. In part; “As man seeks the challenge of his future he needs a light to show him the way. This flashlight, simple as it might be, lighted for me my steps into the universe—steps that were destined to guide me to the surface of the moon on Apollo XVII.” In fine condition.
All of the Apollo astronauts were issued these small lights for use throughout their missions, with additional lights stowed on board both the Lunar and Command Modules. These lights were used for such simple reasons as to not disturb sleeping crew members during sleep periods, to being on standby in case of an emergency such as the event of an electrical failure, as in the case of the Apollo 13 mission. Research of the part and serial number indicate that this light was used by moonwalker Harrison Schmitt. Although it is unknown what capacity he used the light during the mission, there is a possibility it accompanied him to the lunar surface. Pre-certified Steve Zarelli and RR Auction COA.
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