Lot #9436

Gene Kranz’s Apollo 16 Terminal Countdown

Description

“MCC Status Check—Go/No Go Launch”—the flight director’s terminal countdown

Handwritten terminal countdown for Apollo 16, one gridded page, 8.5 x 11, written by Kranz in felt tip and highlighter. The sheet is headed “Terminal Countdown,” and outlines steps such as “Feet Wet,” “LV Firing Azimuth,” “Network Status—M. R. Matrix,” “Release ‘Buzzer’ on RSO P. L.,” “MCC Status Check—Go/No Go Launch,” “CVTS—Go/ No Go Launch Sequence,” “S-IVB Chilldown Complete,” and “Auto Sequence Start.” In fine condition. Accompanied by a signed letter of authenticity from Kranz, in part: “My hand written Apollo 16 Terminal Countdown that accompanies this letter comes from my personal mission files.” The Apollo 16 launch performed as expected until encountering minor technical issues once in Earth orbit, including a potential problem with the environmental control system and the S-IVB third stage's attitude control system—these however were quickly resolved. Kranz’s attention to detail and the readiness of Mission Control in preparing for spaceflight is readily apparent in these notes. The Leon Ford Collection. Pre-certified Zarelli Space Authentication.

Auction Info

• Auction Title: Space and Aviation Auction
• Dates: #463 - Ended October 22, 2015

This item is Pre-Certified by STEVE ZARELLI
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