The Real Space Cowboys.

First edition of this firsthand historical account on the pioneering generation of American astronauts. Octavo, original pictorial wrappers, illustrated with black and white photographs throughout. Boldly signed by Mercury Seven astronaut Wally Schirra and NASA consultant Ed Buckbee on the title page. Ed Buckbee is an American space historian, administrator, and public educator whose career has been closely intertwined with the development and commemoration of the U.S. space program. Beginning his NASA career in 1959, the year the Mercury astronauts were selected, Buckbee witnessed formative moments of human spaceflight, including the launches of Alan Shepard, John Glenn, and the Apollo missions. In 1970 he was chosen by Wernher von Braun to become the founding director of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, where he created the world’s largest space and rocket exhibition and founded the influential U.S. Space Camp and Aviation Challenge programs. Since retiring from the Center in 1994, Buckbee has remained active as an author, lecturer, and advisor to NASA, playing a key role in preserving and interpreting the history of American space exploration through major anniversary events and public programs. In fine condition. Accompanied by a bonus DVD adhered to the rear panel.