G.I. Joe Mercury Astronaut Limited Edition Action Figure 1997 Hasbro 81398

On October 4, 1957, the Soviet Union made history with the successful launching of the world's first satellite, Sputnik 1. For Americans, the event was ominous. The Cold War was at its height and the military significance of Russians in space sent waves of apprehension rippling through the Free World. Scrambling to make up for lost time, the U.S. government created the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and Project Mercury. After a string of disheartening failures, the American program finally met with a measure of success. In January of 1961, a chimpanzee named Ham was launched in the same type of Mercury capsule and powered by the same type of Redstone rocket that would later be used for manned flights. Later, in May of that year, Alan Shepard was launched to achieve the first American suborbital flight. Meanwhile, the Russians had scored another impressive 'first' with the orbital flight of Cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin. Despite the letdown of being again bested by the Soviets, the Americans persevered. Early Mercury successes provided just the encouragement the infant program needed. The mood of the nation was jubilant, spirits were buoyed and everyone seemed eager to go on. Newly-elected President John F. Kennedy was quick to respond, proclaiming that Americans would land on the moon within the decade. It was an ambitious goal, but clearly the race for space was on...and for Americans, it started with Project Mercury.

Classic Collection - Commemorative G.I. Joe Limited Edition Astronaut - Ages 5 and Up - Contents: Helmet with Com-link and Visor, Space Suit with Patches and Air Hose Connector, Gloves, Air Hose, Ventilator, Boots, Dog Tags - Made In China

Brand new, NRFB. Box has minor wear. From a clean, non-smoking environment. We ship fast and pack with care at We-R-Toys!

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