NOT SOLD. [Project X-15] NASA test pilot Neil Armstrong and other X-15 pilots posing in front of the X-15. NASA, 4 October 1960.

2346/6004

[Project X-15] NASA test pilot Neil Armstrong and other X-15 pilots posing in front of the X-15. NASA, 4 October 1960. Printed 1960. Vintage gelatin silver print on fiber-based paper [NASA image E-5931, USAF image K 12600]. 20.3×25.4 cm (8×10 in), with USAF caption numbered “K 12500” on the verso (NASA / USAF).

[USAF caption] Test pilots pose by a North American X-15 at Edwards AFB, Calif. Left to right are: Capt Robert Rushworth, USAF; Mr. Joseph McKay, NASA; Lt. Comdr. Petersen, Navy; Mr. Joseph Walker, NASA; Mr. Neil Armstrong, NASA; and Maj. Robert White, NASA. 4 Oct 1960.

NASA pilot Neil Armstrong (second to the right) and X-15 test pilots pose in front of one of their jets. Operational from 1959 to 1968, the X-15 program was the direct forerunner of orbital spacecraft. As such, the data gathered on these flights was crucial to the development of America’s space program. Numerous records – official and unofficial – were set during the course of the X-15 program, including an altitude record (67 miles, above the Karman line) achieved by Walker, a NASA pilot, in 1963. Armstrong, of course, would become the best-remembered of the group for his role in history as the first man on the moon.

Condition

Very minor scattered handlings cracks, otherwise excellent glossy print in excellent condition.

Auction

Space, 15 November 2023