MOL_v_bw_o_n (ca. 1964-65, unnumbered LM&SC photo)

“This is one version of how the Air Force’s proposed Manned Orbiting Laboratory might appear. Produced by Lockheed Missiles & Space Co., the artist’s cutaway concept displays (1) Gemini capsule in which two astronauts ascend to orbit and return to earth after about 30 days in space; (2) spheres for storage of fuels such as liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen; (3) living compartment (note astronaut resting); (4) air lock between compartments; (5) laboratory working compartment; (6) camera.”

 

8” x 9.75”. The ‘top’ border was likely trimmed at some point.

 

Based on it being Lockheed Missiles & Space Company and the meticulous airbrush work, this has Ludwik Źiemba’s fingerprints all over it. Either with him as the source, or one of his protégés, such as William Collopy or Anthony Saporito…maybe even something collaborative by some or all of them. Gorgeous.

 

MOL stuff abounds online.

 

Gemini B:

 

space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/gemini-b.htm

Credit: Gunter's Space Page website

 

Krebs, Gunter D. “Gemini-B”. Gunter's Space Page. Retrieved June 06, 2023, from space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/gemini-b.htm

Done