Vintage 1:8 scale model of the lunar orbiter spacecraft, measuring approximately 22 x 15 x 18 (with all components adjusted for display purposes), and features four solar panels, the directional and omni-directional antennas, and the central station showing tanks, camera lenses, detectors, and other systems. The model is set on a blue 9.75″ diameter wooden base with affixed plate. In very good to fine condition, with expected wear from use and storage, including: scattered scuffing and soiling, the velocity control rocket engine typically found on top no longer present. From the personal collection of Charlie Dry, a former Apollo test astronaut and research engineer and senior scientific analyst at NASA. The Lunar Orbiter program consisted of five unmanned lunar orbiter missions launched by the United States between 1966 and 1967. The crafts were designed to help select Apollo landing sites by mapping the surface of the moon; as a result, these orbiters provided the first photographs from lunar orbit.
