1961 Astronaut's Space Map
DESCRIPTION
This vibrant mid-century Astronauts’ Space Map was published in 1961 as a promotional fold-out poster distributed free with the purchase of Gravy Train dog food, produced by General Foods in cooperation with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Illustrated by Fred Freeman, a noted American artist celebrated for his technically precise depictions of science and aviation, the map captures the wonder of the early Space Age through its bold composition, radiant color, and richly educational detail.16
Mapping the New Frontier of Outer Space
The front of the poster presents a cosmic panorama of the solar system centered on Earth, its blue and green surface illuminated by the bright yellow flare of the Sun. Each planet is labeled with scientific data, including surface temperatures, orbital speeds, rotational periods, and distances from Earth. Thin white arcs trace planetary orbits across a backdrop of deep space, intersected by the glowing trails of comets and distant galaxies. At lower center, a capsule labeled U.S. First Manned Space Vehicle features Alan Shepard’s historic 1961 Mercury flight, marking America’s entry into human space travel. The map’s clear typography and striking colors transform astronomical information into an engaging visual journey that could inspire both children and adults.
A Space Age Classroom at Home
The reverse side continues the educational focus with illustrated panels titled Why Must We Explore Outer Space?, The Language of Space, and Major Space Firsts. These sections describe the mechanics of rockets, the purpose of satellites, and the milestones of early space missions from Sputnik I through Mercury II. Vibrant illustrations depict futuristic “Islands in the Sky” and “Types of Space Suits for the Astronaut,” along with diagrams of rocket engines and lunar bases. The combination of science, imagination, and consumer advertising made this one of the most ambitious promotional items of the early 1960s, blending public enthusiasm for NASA’s achievements with mid-century marketing flair.
The Cultural Significance of Space Promotion
Issued just months after Shepard’s suborbital flight, this map exemplifies how American companies used the excitement of space exploration to engage the public during the height of the Cold War. Educational materials like this encouraged national pride and curiosity about science while promoting everyday products. Its collaboration with NASA lent an air of authenticity and authority, while Polgreen’s rich, painterly depiction of planets and spacecraft connected popular culture with genuine scientific progress.
CONDITION
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