EUR
CAD
AUD
GBP
MXN
HKD
CNY
MYR
SEK
SGD
CHF
THBApollo 16 Flown 'Purge Port' Hatch Label from the Command Module Casper
Live Auction in Progress ... Currently on Lot Two ways to bid:
- Leave a max absentee bid and the platform will bid on your behalf up to your maximum bid during the live auction.
- Bid live during the auction and your bids will be submitted real-time to the auctioneer.
Bid Increments
| Price | Bid Increment |
|---|---|
| $0 | $5 |
| $50 | $10 |
| $200 | $25 |
| $500 | $50 |
About Auction
LiveApr 25, 2024
Featuring nearly 400 items, RR's Spring Space Exploration auction is filled with flown material, astronaut autographs, Apollo hardware, and other space rarities. RR Auction support@rrauction.com
View Full Catalog (398)
- Lot Description
Flown Apollo 16 “Purge Port” hatch label removed from the crew access hatch of the Command Module Casper after the capsule successfully returned to Earth on April 27, 1972. The label, 3.75 x 2.25, reads “Purge Port” with a right-facing arrow and is comprised of two layers: one of Kapton foil with gold side facing downwards, which is topped by a second later bearing the actual label. Presented in a museum-grade acrylic display case with engraved plate and mission patch to an overall size of 6 x 11. In very good to fine condition, with bubbling and burn marks resulting from re-entry into Earth's atmosphere. Accompanied by a comprehensive booklet from The Space Collective detailing the authenticating factors, history, and relevance of the Apollo 16 Command Module primary access ‘Purge Port’ hatch decal, which includes ample photo-matching evidence.
The ‘Purge Port’ was essential for maintaining a safe and stable environment for the Apollo astronauts during their missions. The port, which released excess gas, such as carbon dioxide, from the cabin into space, helped regulate the atmospheric composition inside the spacecraft, ensuring the astronauts had a sufficient oxygen supply and preventing the buildup of harmful gases.
Approximately 10 minutes before re-entering the Earth's atmosphere on April 27, 1972, the Apollo 16 crew jettisoned the Service Module. About 24 minutes later, Command Module ‘Casper’ splashed down 189 nautical miles (350 km) southeast of the island of Kiritimati, where it and the crew were recovered by the USS Ticonderoga. During the subsequent deactivation/decontamination (D/D) of the Command Module, Charles ‘Chuck’ E. McKim, one of the Operational Team Leaders for D/D on all Apollo and Skylab missions, was tasked with recovering material from ‘Casper,’ including salvaging this ‘Purge Port’ decal from the primary access hatch.
After the Apollo 1 fire, NASA decided to change the makeup of the cabin atmosphere on the launchpad from 100% oxygen to a 60% oxygen 40% nitrogen mix. The pressure and makeup of the cabin's atmosphere on the launchpad were controlled by the ground crew through the Purge Port. During the mission, however, the atmosphere was pure oxygen kept at a pressure of 5 psi (pounds per square inch).
Ex. Charles 'Chuck' E. McKim, Operational Team Leader on the recovery and deactivation/decontamination team from North American Aviation (later North American Rockwell) for all Apollo missions. - Shipping Info
-
Bidder is liable for shipping and handling and providing accurate information as to shipping or delivery locations and arranging for such. RR Auction is unable to combine purchases from other auctions or affiliates into one package for shipping purposes. Lots won will be shipped in a commercially reasonable time after payment in good funds for the merchandise and the shipping fees are received or credit extended, except when third-party shipment occurs. Bidder agrees that service and handling charges related to shipping items which are not pre-paid may be charged to a credit card on file with RR Auction. Successful international Bidders shall provide written shipping instructions, including specified Customs declarations, to RR Auction for any lots to be delivered outside of the United States. NOTE: Declaration value shall be the item’(s) hammer price and RR Auction shall use the correct harmonized code for the lot. Domestic Bidders on lots designated for third-party shipment must designate the common carrier, accept risk of loss, and prepay shipping costs.
-
- Buyer's Premium
