Description
This is a vintage 1960's contractors model of the United States Air Force - Martin Titan SM-68 Space Launch Vehicle made by Topping Models. The model has great detail & has two stages, the upper & lower (see photos). The model slides apart below the U.S. Air Force decal. These models were often displayed on the desks of space contractors, hence the name contractors model, to illustrate the projects that were being worked on by the space companies. The model comes with a well made weighted stand that describes the rocket designation & builder. The model also includes the Strategic Air Command logo decal. Originally built as a backup to the SM-65 Atlas, the space launch vehicle versions of the Titan contributed to the majority of its 368 launches, which included all of the Project Gemini manned flights of the mid-1960s. Titan vehicles were used to lift U.S. military payloads as well as civilian agency reconnaissance satellites & to send interplanetary scientific probes throughout the solar system. The Titan I was the first version of the Titan family of rockets. It began as a backup ICBM project in case the Atlas was delayed. It was a two-stage rocket propelled by RP-1 & liquid oxygen. Titan I was operational from early 1962 to mid-1965. This is a great piece of rocket history and, standing at nearly 19 inches tall, is an awesome display piece for any space fan or collector! Condition: Please see photos for condition. The model is missing is small piece on one of the upper stages (the small red booster). Otherwise the model is is really good shape for its age. Dimensions: 18.5 x 4.875 x 3.875 inches Vintage Usaf Martin Titan Rocket Sm-68 Contractor's Model - Topping Models
