[Gemini VI-A] The first rendezvous in space, at 17,000 mph: Gemini VII...

[Gemini VI-A] The first rendezvous in space, at 17,000 mph: Gemini VII spacecraft above the nose of Gemini VI-A. Thomas Stafford, 15–16 December 1965. Printed 1965. Vintage chromogenic print on fiber-based Kodak paper [NASA image S-65–63194]. 20,3×25,4 cm (8×10 in), with “A Kodak Paper” watermarks on the verso, numbered “NASA S-65–63194” in red in top margin (NASA Manned Spacecraft Center, Houston, Texas).

Literature: The View from Space: American Astronaut Photography 1962–1972, Schick and Van Haaften, p. 51; Apollo: The Epic Journey to the Moon, Reynolds, pp. 52–53.

History’s first space rendezvous, a crucial milestone for the planned lunar missions of Project Apollo, was accomplished by Walter Schirra and Tom Stafford in Gemini VI-A, who chased down the orbiting Gemini VII carrying Frank Borman and James Lovell. About six hours after liftoff, while passing over the Hawaii tracking station on Gemini VI-A’s fourth orbit, Schirra reported that he and Stafford had caught up with Borman and Lovell. This superb photograph was taken by Thomas Stafford with a Hasselblad 500C camera and its 80mm lens using Kodak SO 217 film with an ASA of 1964. The two spacecraft are some 35 feet apart here. Earth can be seen about 160 miles below.

“The ability to take this photo was very gratifying after the numerous delays we encountered in performing the world’s first rendezvous mission. The Gemini VI-A spacecraft was launched on the third attempt to perform the rendezvous and performed it flawlessly. After the hard work and effort of over a year, we finally achieved the key step that will lead us to the lunar-landing mission.” Thomas Stafford (Cortright, p. 165).

“One of the tasks of Gemini VI-A was to inspect the condition of Gemini VII after 12 days of space flight. The photograph shows the operation being conducted along the right side of Gemini VII. Clearly visible are the atmospheric heating effects in the paint of the words ‘United States’ and in the U.S. flag.” James Lovell (Cortright, p. 165).

Condition Report:Creasing to bottom left margin, otherwise excellent condition.

Category:Photos ▸ Vintage photographs