A substantial segment of flown heat shield from the Gemini 8 spacecraft, measuring approximately 2˝ x .5˝ x .75˝ and encased in a 3˝ x 1.5˝ x 1˝ Lucite block, displayed on a wooden base with an engraved plaque reading: "Heat Shield of Gemini #8, 'First Docking in Space,' Neil Armstrong, Dave Scott, 16 March 1966." The base features circular stands for 9˝ tall models of the Gemini-Titan and Atlas-Agena launch vehicles, both included. In fine condition, though the adhesive for the Titan model has let go, it could easily be reattached. An appealing presentation piece from a historic and harrowing flight: it achieved the first docking of two spacecraft in orbit, but also faced a critical in-flight emergency due to a stuck thruster, forcing the crew to perform an emergency reentry.
