The historic Hasselblad 500 camera that was taken to the moon and back and was used on the moon during the Apollo 15 mission in 1971 has been auctioned this week, raising an impressive $910,000 in the process. The camera now belongs to its new owner, Terukazu Fujisawa, founder of Japan’s Yodobashi Camera retail chain.
The Significance of the Hasselblad 500 Camera
The importance of this camera lies in its unique history and the role it played in space exploration. Unlike previous missions where cameras used to photograph the moon’s surface and missions were left on the moon due to their bulk and additional weight, this particular Hasselblad 500 camera was brought back to Earth. The decision to leave cameras on the moon allowed NASA to bring back rare moon mineral samples, which were crucial for scientific research. However, the return of this camera makes it a rare artifact, providing a tangible connection to the Apollo 15 mission and the broader history of space exploration.
The Apollo 15 mission, which took place in 1971, was the fourth mission to land on the moon and the first to focus on extensive scientific exploration. The mission included the first use of the Lunar Roving Vehicle, which allowed astronauts to travel further from the lunar module than in previous missions. The Hasselblad 500 camera captured some of the most iconic images of the lunar surface, contributing significantly to our understanding of the moon’s geology.
The Auction and Its Outcome
The auction for this historic camera started at 80,000 euros and was initially expected to close at somewhere around 200,000 euros. However, the final bid far exceeded these expectations, eventually raising €660,751 (approximately $910,000). This substantial amount reflects the camera’s historical significance and the high value placed on artifacts from the Apollo missions.
Terukazu Fujisawa, the new owner, is the founder of Yodobashi Camera, one of Japan’s largest and most well-known camera retail chains. His acquisition of the Hasselblad 500 camera adds a significant piece to his collection and underscores the importance of preserving historical artifacts related to space exploration.
The high auction price also highlights the growing interest in space memorabilia. Items from the Apollo missions, in particular, have seen increasing demand among collectors and museums. These artifacts serve as a reminder of human ingenuity and the achievements of the space program, inspiring future generations to continue exploring the unknown.
In addition to its historical value, the Hasselblad 500 camera is also a testament to the technological advancements of its time. Hasselblad cameras were chosen by NASA for their reliability, durability, and superior image quality. The modifications made to the cameras for use in space, such as the addition of large film magazines and special coatings to withstand the harsh lunar environment, demonstrate the innovative spirit that drives space exploration.
The sale of the Hasselblad 500 camera is a significant event in the world of space memorabilia and photography. It not only celebrates the achievements of the Apollo 15 mission but also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and cherishing our history. As we look to the future of space exploration, artifacts like this camera provide a link to the past, reminding us of the incredible journey that has brought us to where we are today.
Source: Verge
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