Extraordinary complete flown "Orbital Science Chart D" flight chart carried on the Apollo 13 mission, folded to 12 x 7.5, comprising multiple large map plates taped together in a loop that, if extended, would be approximately 15 feet long; this long, continuous chart was taped and folded so that it could be flipped like a book for use in orbit. The main legend, which identifies the chart as "11 April 1970 Launch Date, Orbital science Chart D, SKB 32100082-374," explains the symbols for photography and color-coded flight paths for revolutions 1-18, and is signed and flight certified in black felt tip, "James Lovell, on board Apollo 13 Cmd Module." In fine condition. Accompanied by a signed letter of provenance from Apollo 13 Commander James Lovell, in part: "I hereby certify that this Orbital Science Chart D was on board the Apollo 13 spacecraft. This lunar chart was for use by Command Module Pilot Jack Swigert circling the moon…This chart was from my personal collection of space artifacts and has been in my possession since the mission." Also includes a photocopy of the Apollo 13 Command Module stowage list, highlighting this chart as one of the items carried on the mission.
Had the Apollo 13 accident not happened, this remarkable map would have been used by Command Module Pilot Jack Swigert during orbital revolutions 1 through 18 for identifying significant targets of opportunity to photograph from orbit. Among the key areas of the map are the intended Apollo 13 Fra Mauro landing site, circled in red; the Sea of Tranquility; the Apollo 12 landing area in the Ocean of Storms; 'Mount Marilyn' in the Montes Secchi region, named by Lovell for his wife during Apollo 8; and the large Grimaldi crater region. There are also "Earthshine Limits" and "Farside Terminator" demarcations, showing where the orbit passes from the lighted side of the moon to the shadow side, among many other scientifically important targets of opportunity. A very rare, massive flown artifact featuring numerous references to and images of iconic lunar landmarks.
This item is Pre-Certified by STEVE ZARELLI
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