February 2013 Auction Ends Wednesday, February 6th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/6/2013
The Atlas 107D's engine start button. Scott Carpenter's depression of this button on 24 May 1962 launched the spacecraft carrying him on his 3-orbit mission. Button is encased in a lucite block. A plaque mounted to the front wooden base is engraved, ''To / LEO / With Continuing Gratitude / From / One of His Boys / SCOTT CARPENTER''. Each of the 4 sides of the base bear plaques, one labeled NASA in Cape Canaveral, another identifying the item, a third reading, ''MA-7 Second Mercury / Manned Orbital Flight / 24 May 1962''. The fourth is the logo of General Dynamics Astronautics, the manufacturer. Presentation measures 9.25'' in height and 4'' square. Minor scratching and slight separation from base, else near fine.
Engine Start Button From the Mercury-Atlas 7 Spacecraft
Click above for larger image.