Buzz Aldrin and James Lovell’s Gemini 12 Flown Computer Failure Cue Cards

These cards were used by Lovell and Buzz Aldrin during the Gemini 12 mission after their rendezvous radar failed, and they were forced to take manual control to dock with the Agena Target Vehicle, relying on charts and the onboard computer instead of the radar system.

And in a signed letter from Lovell: “I hereby certify that these Computer Failure Cards were instrumental in completing the rendezvous after the rendezvous radar failure on my Gemini XII mission in November, 1966. These cards are from my personal collection of space artifacts and have been in my possession since the mission.”

Three ring-bound double-sided flown cue cards entitled “Computer Failure,” “Platform Failure,” and “Radar Failure,” 3.25 x 8, signed at the top of the first card in blue ballpoint, “Gemini 12, James Lowell.” Each of the tabbed cue cards outlines steps to take in case of a systems malfunction. A scarce flown item directly from the mission commander that was essential to the safe completion of the Gemini 12 mission.

Today is Buzz Aldrin’s 90th birthday! 🎂 🚀