a+_v_bw_o_n (ca. 1963-64, poss. nuc. LM&SC lunar proposal, verso hand annotated G797)
Based on other photographs & the paltry documentation available, I think this is a lunar landing craft separating from a nuclear third/S-IVB-like ‘S-N’ stage. Note the retrorockets firing on the S-N to ensure separation. Also, what appear to be steps/handrails down the side of the lander…although they stop well above the base of the vehicle, i.e., lunar surface. Maybe at that point the Astronaut somehow translates over/onto the landing strut…and…uhm…just slides down it, like a staircase banister/baluster. Thanks to the precise detail of the image, it certainly appears smooth enough. 😉
SWAG follows: This must be unmanned...I see no windows. I assume Astronauts transported via Lunar Excursion Module (LEM) will occupy it for extended lunar exploration operations. This would seem to be supported by the presence of what look like solar panels atop the lander.
Although I suppose it could be a logistics/supply vehicle, but then the solar panels would seem to be unnecessary. Unless it would/could subsequently serve as a power augmentation/generation facility?
8.5" x 11".
Another stunning Ludwik Źiemba influenced work by what I believe are protégés Anthony Saporito & J. Kramer. Exquisite.
a+_v_bw_o_n (ca. 1963-64, poss. nuc. LM&SC lunar proposal, verso hand annotated G797)
Based on other photographs & the paltry documentation available, I think this is a lunar landing craft separating from a nuclear third/S-IVB-like ‘S-N’ stage. Note the retrorockets firing on the S-N to ensure separation. Also, what appear to be steps/handrails down the side of the lander…although they stop well above the base of the vehicle, i.e., lunar surface. Maybe at that point the Astronaut somehow translates over/onto the landing strut…and…uhm…just slides down it, like a staircase banister/baluster. Thanks to the precise detail of the image, it certainly appears smooth enough. 😉
SWAG follows: This must be unmanned...I see no windows. I assume Astronauts transported via Lunar Excursion Module (LEM) will occupy it for extended lunar exploration operations. This would seem to be supported by the presence of what look like solar panels atop the lander.
Although I suppose it could be a logistics/supply vehicle, but then the solar panels would seem to be unnecessary. Unless it would/could subsequently serve as a power augmentation/generation facility?
8.5" x 11".
Another stunning Ludwik Źiemba influenced work by what I believe are protégés Anthony Saporito & J. Kramer. Exquisite.