Unique 'gag gift' award given to Apollo 15 LMP Jim Irwin following his flight, featuring a pair of white aviator-style goggles with NASA emblems on the sides applied to a wooden 8 x 9 mount, with a silver plaque affixed below: "Presented to Astronaut James B. Irwin by the Marshall Space Flight Center Team, September 30, 1971, In case he ever again rides in the LRV with Dave Scott driving." In fine condition, with some wear to the wooden mount. Accompanied by a letter of provenance from Rick Boos, in part: "I, Rick Boos, do hereby certify that this Apollo 15 'Goggle Award' is an authentic gag gift that was presented to and owned by Astronaut James B. Irwin. Said award was presented to Mr. Irwin on September 30, 1971, at a post-flight award ceremony hosted by the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center team. According to Mary Irwin (Jim's wife) this award was considered 'very special' to Jim and it hung proudly on his office wall until he passed away." Apollo 15 was the first mission to use the Lunar Roving Vehicle, commonly known as the 'moon buggy.' With Irwin as his passenger, Dave Scott drove the rover a total of 17.3 miles during three lunar surface EVAs, reaching a top speed of about eight miles per hour. Due to the size and/or fragile nature of this item, special packing and shipping options will apply. Please call RR Auction for a quote.
