NASA - Satellite Wonders IV - Original NASA Press Photo (1963) of the Telstar II Communications Satellite

"Satellite Wonders IV" - Original NASA Press Photo (1963) of the Telstar II Communications Satellite

For connoisseurs only: Straight out of a sci-fi movie before there even were any!

Ever feel like you've stepped onto the set of Star Trek, or Star Wars? Well, this 1963 NASA press photo of the Telstar II satellite might just make you think you're looking at something from a galaxy far, far away. Captured in meticulous detail, this image shows Bell Telephone Laboratories technicians carefully assembling the Telstar II communications satellite, a futuristic masterpiece of its time. Equipped with 3600 solar cells on 72 gleaming panels, this satellite was a real-life beacon of innovation, relaying signals across oceans like the stuff of space legend.

Key Features:

- Official NASA Press Photo from April 30, 1963
- Subject: Assembly of the Telstar II communications satellite by Bell Telephone Laboratories technicians
- Features: 3600 solar cells across 72 panels that practically scream “sci-fi icon”
- Function: Acted as a microwave station in space, beaming signals across oceans—before anyone was dreaming of warp speed
- NASA Photo Number: 63-Telstar II-1
- Accompanying typewritten press release on the back (scanned and included in the listing)
- Condition: Authentic, well-preserved photograph with retro space-age vibes

This is part of my "Satellite Wonders" series, a treasure trove of early space exploration photography. If you're a fan of satellites that look like they could’ve been designed by Starfleet, this one’s for you! Telstar II played a key role in paving the way for modern communication, and this photo lets you own a piece of history that truly looks like it belongs in the movies.