Flown Jim Irwin Name Tag, NASA Patch and Piece of PLSS Thermal Jacket Coated with Lunar Dust
Astronauts James Irwin and David Scott spent nearly 17 hours out on the lunar surface during three EVA’s between 31 July and 2 August 1971. During their lunar excursions, Irwin wore a Portable Life Support System (PLSS) which provided breathing oxygen and temperature control for his spacesuit; this PLSS had a thermal insulation jacket for temperature control and micrometeoroid protection. Since each PLSS was individual for the astronaut, Irwin’s nametag along with a NASA logo patch were sewn to the thermal jacket for his PLSS. During the lunar surface EVA’s and rides on the lunar rover, the PLSS, Irwin’s nametag and the NASA patch all became heavily coated with lunar dust. After each EVA, the crew would dust themselves off with a brush, but much of the moon dust became embedded into and "stained" the spacesuits and PLSS units.
After the flight, the Crew Systems division personnel presented this piece of the PLSS thermal jacket with Irwin’s nametag and the NASA patch to him. This portion of the thermal jacket is made of Beta cloth (approx. 6 x 12") and includes five layers of Mylar and other micrometeorite protection and insulation material. The piece of the PLSS thermal jacket on which are sewn Irwin’s name tag and the NASA patch are professionally mounted and framed (to 19 x 37.75"). Accompanying this piece is a separately framed and matted set (38 x 19") of two photographs, one of Irwin on the lunar surface and other of the Apollo XV crew, as well a certificate of authenticity signed by Mrs. Mary Irwin. A truly incredible and rare artifact. This item realized over $280,000 at a Christies auction in 2001. Unique and rare.
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