1969 Map of the Solar System "Man on the Moon"

1969 Map of the Solar System "Man on the Moon" is a vintage Lithographs / Prints artifact by NC News Service / Book Enterprises Inc., N.Y.C. from 1969, preserved in The Record Institute Ephemera Archive.

Category: Lithographs / Prints

Brand: NC News Service / Book Enterprises Inc., N.Y.C.

Year: 1969

Rarity Class: B

Last updated: October 27, 2026

A captivating artifact from the zenith of the Space Race, this beautifully preserved fold-out map bridges the gap between ancient celestial mapping and the modern triumph of the Apollo program. Rendered with striking mid-century illustration techniques, it serves as a domestic monument to humanity’s first steps on the lunar surface.

Quick Read

Era Marker: Features specific "Path to the Moon" diagrams detailing the Apollo Lunar Orbit Rendezvous, dating it to circa 1969. Scientific Snapshot: Displays fascinating pre-1970s astronomical consensus, including Mercury's outdated 88-day rotation and Pluto's "doubtful" diameter. Syndication Origin: Distributed via the "NC News Service," likely as a newspaper insert or educational premium for a mass audience. Dual Focus: Uniquely juxtaposes the ancient astrological Zodiac with modern, hard-science orbital mechanics and rocketry. Aesthetic: A pristine example of mid-century flat illustration, utilizing period color palettes against a deep black void for maximum visual contrast.

Summary

A captivating artifact from the zenith of the Space Race, this beautifully preserved fold-out map bridges the gap between ancient celestial mapping and the modern triumph of the Apollo program. Rendered with striking mid-century illustration techniques, it serves as a domestic monument to humanity’s first steps on the lunar surface.

A large, vintage, multi-panel fold-out educational map titled "NC News Service Map of the Solar System and Outer Space," published by Book Enterprises Inc., N.Y.C. The map is set against a deep black background representing space. A top banner illustrates the Zodiac constellations in a teal band. The central graphic displays the sun and the elliptical orbits of the planets, interspersed with comets, the asteroid belt, and various nebulae. The right side features panels depicting a "Man on the Moon" with an Apollo astronaut and Lunar Module, alongside a diagram showing the "Path to the Moon" detailing the Saturn rocket stages. The bottom edge includes comparative diagrams of planetary and stellar sizes, planetary inclinations, and distances of stars. The piece shows standard fold lines characteristic of a pocket or insert map.