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Lot #6479
Isao Hirai: Ingenuity Mars Helicopter Full-Scale Model

Lifelike full-scale replica of Martian helicopter Ingenuity, expertly crafted by renowned model maker Isao Hirai

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Estimate: $20000+
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Description

Lifelike full-scale replica of Martian helicopter Ingenuity, expertly crafted by renowned model maker Isao Hirai

Full-scale model of the Ingenuity Mars helicopter handmade by master craftsman and model maker Isao Hirai of Hawthorne’s Scale Model Company. Commissioned for NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in 2017, the helicopter, nicknamed ‘Ginny,’ serves as a nearly identical replica to its working counterpart. Constructed of metal, foil, and composite materials, the helicopter features a silver body with landing legs, rotor blades, solar panel, and antennas. It stands 22˝ in height, with the blades 48˝ across from tip to tip, and the solar array measuring 17˝ in length. The body bears the Scale Model Co. label. In very fine condition.

Ingenuity is an autonomous NASA helicopter delivered to Mars on February 18, 2021, attached to the underside of the Perseverance rover, which landed at Octavia E. Butler Landing near the western rim of the Jezero crater. Ingenuity's performance and resilience in the harsh Martian environment greatly exceeded expectations. Originally intended to make only five flights, the small helicopter completed 72 flights in nearly three years before it was ultimately grounded on January 18, 2024, when Ginny’s rotor blades were damaged during landing. During its active status, Ingenuity flew for a total of two hours, eight minutes, and 48 seconds over 1,004 days, covering more than 11 miles. As part of the Mars 2020 mission, Ingenuity demonstrated that flight is possible in the extremely thin atmosphere of Mars, and became the first aircraft to conduct a powered and controlled extra-terrestrial flight. A marvelous and meticulous recreation of a true marvel of modern technology.

Originates from the collection of craftsman and model maker Isao Hirai.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Space
  • Dates: #702 - Ended October 24, 2024