Lot no. 97
97. [Project Gemini] ICONIC PORTRAIT OF NEIL ARMSTRONG IN THE GEMINI G-2C SILVER SPACESUIT, CAPTURED BEFORE HIS FIRST SPACE MISSION
NASA, 2 March 1964
Printed 1964.
Vintage chromogenic print on fibre-based Kodak paper [NASA image NASA S-64-17092].
Numbered "NASA S-64-17092" in red in the top margin, with NASA caption and "A Kodak Paper" watermark on the reverse (issued by NASA Manned Spacecraft Centre, Houston, Texas).
20.3 x 25.4 cm. (8 x 10 in.)
Historical context
This striking portrait of Neil Armstrong highlights his pivotal role in the Gemini program, which laid the foundation for the Apollo lunar landings. The reflective Gemini G-2C silver spacesuit, with its intricate life-support connections, represents NASA's cutting-edge technology of the 1960s. Armstrong's calm and focused demeanor reflects the professionalism and courage required of astronauts venturing into the unknown, qualities he exemplified two years later during the perilous docking of Gemini VIII. This image stands as an enduring symbol of Armstrong's historic journey to becoming the first human to set foot on another world.
Pictures credits: Contact organization
Photographs and film
About the sale04/28/2025
Catalog
FOR ALL MANKIND THE ARTISTIC LEGACY OF EARLY SPACE EXPLORATION: Victor Martin-Malburet Collection
75008 Paris - France