Details:

Fred Haise autographed commemorative cover honoring the Gulfstream II Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA), postmarked Edwards Air Force Base, California, October 25, 1977, and signed in black ink by astronaut Fred Haise.

Fred Haise has signed this attractive Space Shuttle-related cover commemorating the Gulfstream II Shuttle Training Aircraft utilized by NASA during the development of the Space Shuttle program. The cachet identifies aircraft tail number 946 and notes its use by astronauts Gordon Fullerton, Fred Haise, and Charlie Hayes in conducting practice shuttle approaches. The Shuttle Training Aircraft was an essential tool that allowed astronauts to rehearse the steep and demanding approach profile required for shuttle landings.

The Gulfstream II STA was extensively modified by NASA to replicate the handling characteristics of the Space Shuttle during its final descent and landing phase. Operating from Edwards Air Force Base and other NASA facilities, the aircraft played a critical role in preparing shuttle crews for flight and remained in use throughout the Space Shuttle era.

Fine condition.

Fred Wallace Haise Jr. (b. 1933) is a former NASA astronaut, test pilot, and aerospace engineer. He is best known as Lunar Module Pilot of Apollo 13, the ill-fated 1970 mission that was successfully brought home after an onboard explosion. Following Apollo, Haise became deeply involved in Space Shuttle development and served as one of the principal pilots for the Enterprise Approach and Landing Tests. His contributions to both the Apollo and Space Shuttle programs place him among the most important figures in American spaceflight history

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

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Reference sku: 11519 1416228-1