December 2019 Auction Ends Thursday, December 12th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/12/2019
Apollo 11 launch checklist sheet, used by Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins ''every time we performed a launch simulation'', during training in the CSM 107 Columbia. According to Aldrin who signs it, ''Used in Training for Apollo XI / Buzz Aldrin'', the sheet is from Section 1 entitled ''Liftoff Configuration'' from the ''Launch Operations Checklist'' for the Command Service Module Columbia.
Sheet is accompanied by an additional letter of provenance also signed by Aldrin, on his personal Apollo 11 stationery which reads in part,
''Accompanying this letter is a sheet numbered 1-9 and 1-10 from the CSM 107 (Apollo 11) Launch Operations Checklist, SKB32100080-306. It was part of the complete manual that was used in the Command Module Apollo Mission Simulator at the Manned Spacecraft Center in Houston, Texas. The sheet is from Section 1 titled: Liftoff Configuration.
The entire checklist, including this actual sheet, was used by all three Apollo 11 crew members: Neil Armstrong, Michael Collins, and myself. We referred to this section every time we performed a launch simulation. All of the control panel switches, dials, and knobs had to be set to the liftoff settings defined in this section.''
Aldrin then details exactly where the panels on the sheet were located in the CSM. He continues, ''It was important to rehearse the flow of this activity in the simulator. It was an excellent learning device and the checklist was an important tool to insure our correct performance. This training was a key step which enabled our flight to make the first manned lunar landing on July 20, 1969.
I kept the checklist after our mission as a reminder of the all [sic] the training that took place back in 1969. I have written on page 1-9: 'Used in training for Apollo XI' and signed that page. A copy of the checklist cover page is included. [signed] Buzz Aldrin''.
Checklist sheet measures 5.5'' x 8'', with instructions on both front and verso, three hole punched. Upon the margin is printed on both sides, ''CSM 107 & SUBS Basic Date April 15, 1969 / Changed June 16, 1969''. Letter of provenance measures 8.5'' x 11''. Near fine condition. An interesting Apollo 11 collectible, viscerally connecting one to the rigorous preparation done by NASA and the astronauts.
Apollo 11 Launch Checklist Used by the Astronauts During Flight Simulation Training for the Apollo 11 Mission, Signed by Buzz Aldrin -- With Additional Letter of Provenance Also Signed by Aldrin
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