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Lot #579
Apollo 11 News Teletype

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Estimate: $400+
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Description

Uncommon original news teletype roll covering operations preceding the Apollo 11 lunar landing, measuring 8.5" x 63", chronicling Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong's first entrance into the Lunar Module 'Eagle' to activate it for lunar descent, which included an unplanned television transmission of their activities. This teletype describes this transmission and the operations of the crew. In part: "The camera was trained back through the tunnel to show Collins in the Command Module. Aldrin is now taking a picture of Armstrong standing over the tunnel, looking down at Collins on the other end. Armstrong advised ground control that they would bring some hoses from the Command Module to improve circulation in the long-sealed lander…Ground Control said Aldrin's entrance into the lunar lander was about 40-minutes ahead of schedule. The camera did not show the movement, but communications indicated Armstrong has now joined Aldrin in the lander. The camera transmitted exceptionally clear pictures of the very complicated instrument panel of the lander, framed by the front windows of the lander…Aldrin pointed out to the camera one of the portable life support units that will be used by the astronauts on their historic walk on the moon. The NASA emblem on the unit was clearly visible…The picture became noticeably darker and Collins announced that the Apollo was now approaching the terminator. Mission Control advised Apollo-11 to change the lens setting on its lightweight color television camera. Although the picture was comparatively dark, the camera did pick up the Crater Moltke, not far from the lunar landing site. Collins said the terminator presented a 'fantastic view'…The camera was then switched to the horizon of the moon and revealed very rough terrain. The horizon appeared black and the hills and mountains cast long shadows over the area. At that point, the lunar landscape transmission was terminated." In very good condition, with toning, tears, stains, and all of the type very faded but still legible.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts
  • Dates: #633 - Ended April 13, 2022