1961 Yuri Gagarin Soviet Vostok Space Pioneer Astronaut Photograph Pin Badge

Description

View 1961 Yuri Gagarin Soviet Vostok Space Pioneer Astronaut Photograph Pin Badge with current marketplace pricing, condition, product images and item details. A beautiful space race souvenier from the former Soviet Union featuring Yuri Gagarin, the first man in space and astronaut aboard Vostok 1. The diameter is 1.9cm and the badge contains an actual miniature photograph of Gagarin, hero of the Soviet Union. The badge is in effect a tiny picture frame and has a safety clasp style fastener to the rear. Over 60 years ago, a 27 year old Russian Mig pilot was preparing to become the first human in space. Yuri Gagarin was selected from the shortlist of 20 cosmonauts due to many factors. He passed the rigorous physical and mental tests, his family came from a working class background which was important as his name would inspire a whole nation. He was only 5' 2 inches which was a favourable size for the cramped conditions in the re-entry capsule and he had a genial, outgoing personality. The vostok rocket itself was a modified nuclear missile rocket. The rocket carried the vostok module in the nose section. Because the effects of space travel on the human mind were unknown at this time Gagarin had no control over the rocket, it was remotely piloted from the launch site. Only in an emergency could Gagarin override the controls. Condition: Used. Category: Collectibles › Historical Memorabilia › Astronauts & Space Travel › Russian & Soviet Program.