Bonham's auction house in New York is preparing to sell a bumper crop of historic space exploration artifacts as part of the sixth annual Space History Sale. The auction will see 296 pieces of all kinds of space memorabilia from the US and Soviet space programs go on the block for people looking to own a piece of space exploration history.
The highlights of the Space History Sale include a Mercury-era space suit, possibly the only pneumatic-drive telescope still in existence and hardware flown into space. Other items include flags, medallions, suit patches, stamps, survival gear, rare photographs signed by American and Soviet cosmonauts and even dehydrated tea, coffee and vacuum-packed astronaut chewing gum.
The auction is being timed to mark the 50th anniversary of NASA’s Project Gemini, which launched the first unmanned test flight on April 8, 1964.
Space Memorabilia Auctions
The 'Space History Sale' Comprises Precious Space Exploration Items
Trend Themes
1. Space Exploration Memorabilia - Opportunity for companies to create online platforms or marketplaces to buy and sell space exploration memorabilia.
2. Space Tourism - Potential for the development of space tourism experiences and services as interest in space exploration grows.
3. Space Collectibles Investment - Emerging trend of investors seeking to purchase and collect rare space exploration artifacts as a long-term investment.
Industry Implications
1. Auction Houses - This trend presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for auction houses to specialize in space memorabilia auctions and cater to the growing demand.
2. E-commerce Platforms - Online marketplaces could capitalize on the trend by creating dedicated platforms for buying and selling space exploration memorabilia.
3. Tourism and Hospitality - Companies in the tourism and hospitality industry can explore the potential of offering space-themed experiences and packages to cater to space enthusiasts.