Luna 10 Soviet robotic lunar station spacecraft model

Luna-10

Project Presentation Model, Lavochkin Research and Production Association Design Bureau

Large 1:10 scale, approx. 21 in. tall x 10 in. wide, highly detailed, custom handmade model in metal with some elements of plastic composite on 11^1/2 inch square base with plaque reading "Luna 10 Soviet Robotic Spacecraft / NPO Lavochkin. March 31, 1966."

Launched on March 31, 1966, the Soviet Luna-10 became the first artificial satellite of the Moon. The mission included further research into lunar orbits, the strength of the Moon's magnetic field, cosmic radiation, and the discovery that the physical nature of lunar rocks were similar to Earth's basalt rocks. Of extra importance was the first examination of lunar basin areas of high density where ancient volcanos once erupted. These "mascon" areas were found to distort lunar orbital trajectories, a discovery that would prove absolutely essential to future lunar missions.