Post by Chicago Astronomer - Astro Joe on Apr 11, 2006 23:01:52 GMT -6
Gemini XII makes it's way into the Adler Planetarium
...Continued from thread I -"Gemini 12 Arrives":
...Although it was bright and sunny out, it was a bit chilly. I made my way past the capsule work crew and set up my position inside. The warmth of the museum was welcomed!
Here, The Gemini XII capsule is passing in front of Captain James Lovell's statue, which I find quite fitting, as he was in this very capsule four decades ago.
(An account of the Statue Unveiling ceremony can be found here:
astronomer.proboards23.com/index.cgi?board=Adler&action=display&thread=1120003025 )
It gets pushed into it's final display area, and we gather around for the photo op.
The crew then ripped away some of the protective wrap, exposing the astronaut cabin for the media. An excellent opportunity! I waited my turn after the tv crews had their ops and interviews. On this day, I had time to wait.
It was quite exciting waiting in the wings to actually get the chance to view the interior of the Gemini XII without the encumbrances of plexiglass and other obstacles.
Here, Adler Board President, Dr. Paul Knappenburger points out the various details and history of the capsule. I am pleased he and other Adler representatives worked to obtain the capsule for us all.
It was then my turn to climb the ladder that was provided and take some shots of my own.
It was fascinating to actually peer into the cabin, with 1960 era switches and other antiquated mechanical devices. I wanted to get the best shots for this one time opportunity, so I did some overhead shots and tried to capture as most I could. Others wanted to climb the ladder as well, so considerate of my fellow journalists, I made way down and approached the capsule.
More in the next thread:
Inside the Gemini XII Space Craft...
