^Lot 177 Gemini B

A large heatshield sample of Gemini B. Cylindrical section measures three inches in diameter and is encased in a 4 x 4 x 2 clear block affixed to a 9 x 6 walnut base with a descriptive plaque reading “Sample of Heatshield of Gemini B, Project Gemini B–MOL 1966.” The Manned Orbital Laboratory (MOL) was to be used for reconnaissance purposes. Crews would be launched on 40-day missions and return to Earth using a Gemini B spacecraft. Item originates from the first auction dedicated to space exploration, held in 1993—a photocopy of the item's description in that catalog is taped on the underside of the base.