Early Space Shuttle-era white Thermal Micrometeorite Garment (TMG) glove, measuring approximately 8.5 x 17, featuring silicon fingertips, a Velcro-close flap over the knuckle area, and a fold-up 'hot pad' mitt stored beneath a cover of Teflon fabric on the lower wrist. This built-in thermal mitt would provide an added layer of protection against temperature extremes as well as provide abrasion resistance when used. The glove also features a tether break-away loop on the back of the wrist, where an astronaut could attach tools for convenience; if an unexpected load was applied, the tether would break off rather than damage the underlying glove or harm the astronaut. Interior tags denote a manufacture date of February 1980, indicating that this was an early model being designed for the Shuttle missions beginning with STS-6 in April 1983, when Story Musgrave and Don Peterson made the program's first EVAs from Challenger. In very good to fine condition, with scattered soiling. This glove has been authenticated by Bill Ayrey, company historian at ILC Dover, the manufacturer of the Apollo, Shuttle, and Space Station suits, and is accompanied by a letter of authenticity. The TMG is the outermost layer of the spacesuit and provides insulation, radiation shielding, and protection from micrometeorites that could otherwise puncture the suit.
