|
Two different versions of the Gemini 6 crew patch were created, reflecting the change in the objective of the mission itself. The original GTA-6 version (shown in the top images on the right), showed the Gemini 6 spacecraft performing a rendezvous with an Agena target vehicle but when the Agena launch failed the Gemini 6 mission had to be rethought. When the mission was finally launched with the modified objective of performing a rendezvous with Gemini 7 a new modified patch design was used (shown in the lower images on the right) with the Agena replaced by the Gemini 7 spacecraft. |
 |
The original Gemini 6 mission plan called for a rendezvous with an Agena, as depicted on the embroidered crew patch shown here.
This is the patch design worn by the crew on their spacesuits for the first launch attempts but the mission plan changed when the Agena launch vehicle failed and the Gemini 6 launch was scrubbed.
Although a new patch design was created and used by the crew on the mission itself, examples of this original patch were flown as souvenirs by the crew[1], with one flown example recently selling at auction for nearly $4000[2].
As with all original Gemini crew patches this design is exceptionally rare.
The patch measures approximately 3¾" wide by 3¼" high (96x83mm).
Following the Agena's failure the Gemini 6 mission plan was rewritten so that they would rendezvous with Gemini 7 instead. A new mission patch design was created with the Agena replaced by a Gemini spacecraft and the GTA-6 name (Gemini-Titan-Agena) replaced by Gemini 6.
This patch design is the one used by the crew during the mission.
This crew patch is exceptionally rare.
[2] Heritage Auctions September 21, 2007 lot 25068 at $3883.75 (inc buyer's fees)
