NASA Shuttle Crew Escape System Cachet Cover Signed by Roger K. Crouch, STS-42

A 1987 illustrated event cover commemorating the development of the Shuttle Crew Escape System, postmarked Ridgecrest, CA, December 1, 1987 — the nearest post office to the China Lake test site. The two-color cachet documents both the Tractor Rocket System tested over China Lake and the Escape Pole System ultimately chosen by NASA and tested over Edwards Air Force Base, with a printed timeline of developmental tests and live jumps running November 1987 through March 1988. Franked with the 22¢ Flag Over Capitol coil stamp and carrying the STS-26 "Lounge Hilmers Nelson Hauck Covey" mission emblem at lower right.

Signed in blue ink by Roger K. Crouch, who has inscribed the cover "STS-42 Alternate Payload Specialist." Crouch flew as a payload specialist aboard STS-83 and STS-94 and served in the alternate role for the STS-42 International Microgravity Laboratory mission. The escape-system hardware celebrated here entered the orbiter fleet after the Challenger accident, making this a tangible piece of post-1986 Shuttle safety history tied to a flown astronaut.

CONDITION

Very Good. Clean cachet with bright ink and a crisp cancellation; the autograph and inscription are bold and fully legible. Minor handling to the envelope edges. The reverse shows light overall toning and faint show-through.

DIMENSIONS / SPECIFICATIONS

• 3 5/8" × 6 1/2"
• Postmark: Ridgecrest, CA — Dec. 1, 1987
• Franking: 22¢ Flag Over Capitol coil stamp
• Signature: Roger K. Crouch, blue ink, with "STS-42 Alternate Payload Specialist" inscription
• Certificate of Authenticity issued by Mesilla Valley Estate Sales