Description: This original 1965 commemorative medallion from NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center marks a defining moment in American space history. Crafted in metal and paired with a blue ribbon, it features the official NASA insignia and the inscription:
“National Aeronautics and Space Administration – Goddard Space Flight Center – 1965”
Goddard was NASA’s first space flight center, and in 1965, it played a critical role in satellite development, deep space communications, and mission support for Gemini and Apollo programs. This medallion likely commemorates internal achievements or milestones during a year of intense innovation.
📍 Historical Context – Why 1965 Matters:
Gemini IV launched in June 1965, marking the first American spacewalk by astronaut Ed White.
Goddard was developing satellite tracking systems, supporting missions like Ranger 8 (which sent back lunar images) and prepping for Apollo’s communications infrastructure.
NASA’s workforce surged, with over 30,000 engineers and scientists pushing boundaries in propulsion, telemetry, and orbital rendezvous.
The first images of Mars were returned via Mariner 4, a major leap in planetary science.
This medallion is not just a collectible—it’s a tangible piece of the space race, tied to the very systems that made moon landings possible.
📏 Size: Approx. 1.5” diameter 🎀 Ribbon: Original blue with vintage safety pin 📦 Condition: Good vintage condition with light patina; ribbon shows age-appropriate wear 🌍 Provenance: U.S.-issued, likely internal NASA distribution