Details:

Kathryn C. Thornton and Sonny Carter autographed cover commemorating the launch of the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS-C). The cover features a Goddard Space Flight Center Shuttle Tracking Team cachet and bears a Greenbelt, Maryland postmark dated September 29, 1988. Both astronauts have signed the cover prominently in ink.

The cover commemorates the launch of TDRS-C, part of NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System, which revolutionized communications between spacecraft and ground controllers. The TDRS network dramatically increased communication coverage for Space Shuttle missions and other NASA spacecraft, becoming an essential component of the agency’s spaceflight infrastructure.

Fine condition.

Kathryn C. Thornton (b. 1952) is a NASA astronaut and physicist who flew on four Space Shuttle missions between 1989 and 1995. She is best known for her participation in several spacewalks, including work performed during the first servicing mission to the Hubble Space Telescope. Thornton logged more than 975 hours in space during her distinguished NASA career.

Manley Lanier “Sonny” Carter Jr. (1947-1991) was a physician, naval aviator, and NASA astronaut selected in 1984. He flew aboard Space Shuttle Discovery on STS-33 in 1989 and was widely respected for his contributions to NASA’s astronaut corps. Carter’s promising career was tragically cut short when he was killed in the crash of Atlantic Southeast Airlines Flight 2311 on April 5, 1991. His autograph remains highly sought after by collectors due to his untimely death.

Authentication:
Includes a full letter of authenticity from JG Autographs, Inc.

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Reference sku: 11519 1416235-1