Full-Scale Sputnik-1 EMC/EMI Lab Model with Vintage Tesla Maj 620A Broadcast Receiver. ...

Click the image to load the highest resolution version.

Sold on Dec 1, 2022 for:

$375,000.00 Bid Source: Live: Floor bidder

Get one of these:

Share this lot

Track Item Printable Auction Results

Sell One of These

Description

Auction Info

Guides & Info

Description

The Beginning of the Space Race

Full-Scale Sputnik-1 EMC/EMI Lab Model with Vintage Tesla Maj 620A Broadcast Receiver. An awe-inspiring original vintage test model of the Sputnik-1 satellite, which effectively gave birth to the Space Race. One of very few, likely four, known to be produced by the OKB-1 (now Energia) lab in 1957 in order to test ground Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) and Electromagnetic Interference (EMI). Serial numbered OK61/004/1957, and the polished aluminum model includes four removable antennae and measures approximately an overall 79" tall and 15' long when assembled and seated upon original brass stand with leather anti-static o-ring. The interior of the model has been renovated to modern working order. This model comes complete with a vintage Tesla MAJ 620A broadcast receiver manufactured in Prague circa 1955-56. Measuring approximately 24 x 18 x 13 inches, and serial number 454970C.

This exceptional example is from the collection of Dr. Frank J. Malina. To quote the official NASA website, Dr. Malina "is considered by some to be the father of modern rocketry." Born to Czech immigrants on October 2, 1912, in Brenham, Texas, Malina had a remarkable scientific career. In the late 1930s to early 1940s, Malina was part of a six-man team of Caltech graduate students that performed various rocket experiments. In fact, one of their first projects was testing a small, alcohol-fueled motor in order for Malina to complete his graduate thesis. In 1941, Malina and his team demonstrated the first-ever jet-assisted takeoff rockets (JATO) to the U.S. Army. The project took the name of the Aerojet Corporation and produced JATO rockets on a contract basis. As things continued to evolve what these students began became the ever-important Jet Propulsion Laboratory which was instrumental in many aspects of spaceflight. In fact, Malina served as the Acting Director from 1944-1946.

When Sputnik was launched on October 4, 1957, it was, in a sense, the beginning of the Space Race and another step in the Cold War. Americans were quickly concerned with what appeared to be superior rocket technology from the Soviets. There was no denying that there was in fact a successful satellite launch, as people from around the world tuned in their radios to hear the "beep-beep" transmitting signal being returned from orbit. It was not until 2007, on the fiftieth anniversary of the launch, that the first of these test models was revealed to the public. Two currently reside in museums, one being at the Energia Corporate Museum outside Moscow, and another at the Museum of Flight in Seattle, Washington. This is an incredible opportunity to own one of the rarest, fabulously displayable artifacts in the history of space exploration from an impressive pedigreed collection.

Included is a certificate of export that has been issued by the National Technical Museum in Brno, Czech Republic stating: "The laboratory model of a satellite Sputnik for tests of electromagnetic compatibility EMC/EMI. In February 1957, before the construction of the satellite Sputnik itself (or Prostejsij Sputnik), the developers built testing model to determine the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and the optimum length and material of the aerials. The purpose of the models was to be technological demonstrators before the satellite production as such. The serial number 004 comes from a private collection of Dr. Frank Malina (1912-1981). Dr. Malina obtained the object in question as a gift during the 60s of the 20th century in Europe."

Condition: Moderate to heavy rust on stand. Model shows general wear with marks, scuffs, and scratches, some darkening. Wood on receiver shows general wear as well with partially removed label on back.

Auction Info

2022 December 1 Historical Platinum Session Signature® Auction #6267 (go to Auction Home page)

Auction Dates

December, 2022

1st Thursday

Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 5

Lot Tracking Activity: N/A

Page Views: 3,103

Buyer's Premium per Lot:
25% on the first $300,000 (minimum $49), plus 20% of any amount between $300,000 and $3,000,000, plus 15% of any amount over $3,000,000 per lot.

Shipping, Taxes, Terms and Bidding
Charges to be determined based on Actual Shipping Costs incurred. Note: Additional invoice may follow original. Please contact us for more information. Sales Tax information

Important information concerning Sales Tax and Resale Certificates. Learn More

Terms and Conditions | Bidding Guidelines and Bid Increments | Glossary of Terms

Sold on Dec 1, 2022 for: $375,000.00

Track Item