Lot 114
Gemini XII, 1966, FLOWN "Rendezvous" Checklist (10.5x8.5") This checklist contains 14 light-card, three-ring pages (with original snap rings), each with a white velcro tab and two thick card covers, and each with white velcro attachments (In the weightlessness of space, velcro was the only way to keep pages open and to keep the checklist from floating around the spacecraft cabin. Velcro was one of the many innovations to come out of the U.S. Space Program and adapted for commercial use).
The first page of this checklist is titled: "Radar CDH Detection" and is covered with penciled figures made by Buzz Aldrin during the flight. The balance of the checklist is devoted to Gemini XII "Initial Rendezvous Procedures" and timelines and contains only a few random pencil notations. In addition, there are several vector graphs that clearly show the complexity of the orbital mechanics and the skills needed to sucessfully rendezvous in space.
The front cover has printed: "Part No: "CH 55069", Dash 1, S/N: "123", Remarks: "Rendezvous" at the bottom. The consignor has notated the cover in blue ink: "Flown on Gemini 12, Nov. 1966" and signed it "Buzz Aldrin". The consignor has also cryptically inscribed the inside of the front cover in blue ink: "Dear "Doctor" / Please don't miss this one / Your hopeful Command Pilot".
The back cover is blank except for two white velcro strips AND a lightly rusted snap ring that was used to attached this checklist in place during the flight (in addition to, or instead of, using the velcro strips).
There is a small tear at the bottom of the first page (through one notation) caused by the page sticking to adhesive that "leaked" from the velcro strip at the edge of the front cover, due to age. The strip was designed to hold the velcro tabs on each page to keep the pages open. A unique document that was key to the success of the entire space program! Had rendezvous proceedures not been perfected during this flight (the last of the Gemini Program), there was no way the Apollo spacecraft could have docked with the Command Module after lifting off of the lunar surface and the whole space program would have come to a screeching halt.
Estimated Value $150,000 - 250,000.
Ex. the astronaut Buzz Aldrin collection.
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