NASA Hasselblad Electric Camera (HEC)

Very rare model 500 EL/M from the first series, originally modified for NASA and one of the few cameras that were actually delivered to NASA (no Replica for demonstration purposes). The body engraved "P/N SEB 33100102-201 S/N 1032 HASSELBLAD ELECTRIC CAMERA“ on the side. The serial number TRE 11606 engraved inside. The matching magazine with serial number TR 400124 engraved "P/N SEB 33100082-201 S/N 211 LUNAR SURFACE HASSELBLAD SUPER WIDE CAMERA 70-mm MAGAZINE“ on the side, with insert with matching serial number. The black anodised Carl Zeiss Planar 80 mm f/2.8 Nr. 4488996 (fillings of serial number engraving in red colour) from the first series delivered to NASA. With large handles to operate the controls of focusing ring, shutter speed ring and aperture ring. A red marking above the shutter speed engravings from B to 1/30 sec., most likely to avoid the use of the slow speeds in space. The lens barrel hand-engraved „555644“ and with a blue "1995" NASA inventory sticker. An identical camera/lens combination resides in the collection of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., with body serial number TRE 11594 and Planar 80 mm lens Nr. 4488995. It was donated from NASA in 1970. This model represents the first generation of motor-driven Hasselblad cameras for NASA, which were also used on the manned space mission during December 21st and 27th 1968, which closely passed the moon, for the purpose of surveying possible landing sites of future moon missions. Apart from other modifications, the camera mirror was removed to reduce weight. A special large-control locking mechanism was added in order to change film magazines with the bulky space gloves. Similarly, a larger and more robust shutter release plate was added to the camera. Included: A second body from the same series with serial number TRE 11590 which most likely was dismantled for inspection. Literature (included): Alain Lazzarini, "Hasselblad and the Moon", p. 65ff., 77, 83 (exactly this camera, lens and magazine are illustrated).