Lot #43: NASA Shuttle Blanket Insulation Actuator Pitch TVC | 1984 Flown Space Shuttle Artifact

Historical Context & Origin Region: United States (NASA, Space Shuttle Program) Material: Fibrous silica batting (thermal blanket insulation) Period: April 1983 (Flown Shuttle Component) Description This authentic NASA Space Shuttle Blanket Insulation Actuator Pitch TVC from April 1983 is a flown artifact directly tied to the Space Shuttle Program. Measuring approximately 11 x 10 inches, this thermal protection blanket was engineered from fibrous silica batting—a lightweight, high-temperature-resistant material developed to replace earlier Low-Temperature Reusable Surface Insulation (LRSI) tiles. Stamped with its manufacture date (April 1983), serial number S/N 008, and manufacturer code MFR 25167, this rare component showcases the precision and ingenuity behind NASA’s Thermal Protection System (TPS) design. Used in Pitch TVC (Thrust Vector Control) systems, it helped safeguard shuttle structures from the extreme heat of atmospheric re-entry and engine operations—ensuring crew and mission safety. Features - Authentic flown NASA shuttle insulation blanket, 1983 - Clearly stamped with serial number, date, and manufacturer code - Constructed from high-temperature fibrous silica batting - Key component in shuttle thermal protection and pitch vector control - Rare NASA aerospace engineering artifact from the golden age of space exploration Cultural Significance Thermal insulation was crucial to every Space Shuttle mission, enabling controlled re-entry and safe flight through intense temperature extremes. This piece represents NASA’s relentless innovation during the 1980s—a period when materials science and aerospace engineering converged to advance human spaceflight. Artifacts like this stand as tangible links to NASA’s Shuttle Era, a defining chapter in humanity’s quest to explore beyond Earth. Condition Well-preserved with visible identification and flight markings. Minor surface wear consistent with flown shuttle use, enhancing authenticity and provenance. Age (Approximate) 43 years old Provenance This piece originates from the estate of Charles Bell, NASA electronics scientist and inventor. It was sold during the Charles Bell Space Auction in May 2000 and originates from Florida, USA. Dimensions: Width: 10 in x Height: 11 in Pickup category timeslot {A} Price Estimate: CAD 400 - 1000 Ships from Toronto, ON. No local pickup. Buyer arranges shipping and insurance directly with seller after auction closes.