December 2012 Auction Ends Tuesday, December 18th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/18/2012
Lunar Module Pilot Charles Duke's own space food ration in airtight packaging flown on the Apollo 16 mission. The lunar mission launched from Kennedy Space Center on 16 April 1972, commanded by John Young, Duke and Ken Mattingly. NASA over-packed lunch for its astronauts, and after an eleven-day expedition in space, they returned to Earth with leftovers including this intact 12-pack of cheddar cheese crackers. The Velcro tab used to secure the package in the weightless environment of space is still affixed to the upper right. A label affixed to center identifies the snack and bears ID number ''5083''. A typed letter of provenance signed by Duke is included. Dated 11 December 2004, it reads in part: ''...By this letter, I certify that the Apollo food bag containing 'Cheddar Cheese Crackers' with ID number 5083 with a 'Blue' Velcro tab was flown to the moon aboard the Apollo Command Module 'Casper'...Each meal usually consisted of four or five bags that included a drink, a soup, an entree, a vegetable, and a dessert. One crewman would prepare the meals for consumption...While the Apollo food did not look very appetizing, I actually found it tasty and certainly nutritious. The portions were more than ample so all the food was not consumed. This is one of the bags that were not consumed. This food bag has been a part of my personal space collection since we returned from our mission on April 27, 1972...'' The Apollo 16 mission included the collection of rock samples from the moon's Descartes Highlands. Evidence of rock formed by impact rather than volcano surprised scientists, providing new insight into the history of our closest celestial neighbor. Package measures 7'' x 3.5'', in fine condition.
Apollo 16 Flown Astronaut Rations -- Sealed Packet of Cheese Crackers With Lunar Module Pilot Charles Duke's Signed LOA
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