SPACE Journal September 1959 Vintage Space Magazine Missiles Rockets

The Original SPACE Journal September 1959 Edition Welcome to the authentic SPACE Journal from September 1959, a standout publication from the brand that defined early space reporting. This issue, produced by Space Enterprises, Inc. in Nashville, Tennessee, stands as a testament to the brand's dedication to bringing the latest in astro-sciences to enthusiasts across the nation. From the striking cover art depicting a futuristic spacecraft orbiting Earth to the detailed interior spreads, every page reflects the high standards the SPACE Journal brand was known for in its day. Inside this vintage magazine, readers were treated to exclusive content that no other publication matched at the time. The missile kits advertisement showcases seven giant models of the U.S. Army's Guided Missile Defense System, reproduced in precision detail from official prints. Models include the Little John (No. M-12, boxed with Dart), Nike Hercules (No. M-14, over 21 inches long for $2.00), Nike Ajax (No. M-13, over 17 inches for $0.98), Honest John (No. M-16, over 13 inches for $0.98), Talos (No. M-15, over 15 inches for $1.89), and Corporal (No. M-11, over 22 inches for $1.79). A special bundle offer for all seven kits was available for only $7.50, saving buyers $2.44. This section alone makes the magazine a treasure for anyone interested in the brand's focus on accessible space technology education and hands-on learning. Articles delve deep into the scientific questions of the time with expert contributors. Zdenek Kopal's featured piece asks 'Does the Moon Possess a Magnetic Field?' and explores the Pioneer I probe's magnetometer data from October 1958, comparing it to Russian Mechta findings and recent terrestrial observatory studies on lunar luminescence. Donald N. Michael's thoughtful essay 'Space Exploration and the Values of Man' discusses how venturing into space could reshape human perspectives and national character, drawing on his impressive background in physics from Harvard, sociology from the University of Chicago, and psychology doctorate work. These brand-curated features highlight the journal's commitment to thoughtful, expert analysis rather than mere sensationalism, setting the SPACE Journal brand apart as a trusted voice in the emerging field. Additional highlights include in-depth coverage of the National Association of Rocketry (NAR) and the Green Mountain Proving Ground, where model rocketeers tested their creations under strict safety rules with remote electrical firing panels and multiple eight-launcher pads. Photos show enthusiasts tracking rockets with binoculars, emphasizing the brand's support for amateur rocketry as a true gateway to professional space careers and tomorrow's spacemen. The full-page Thiokol Chemical Corporation advertisement illustrates how solid propellants were advancing both military and civilian rocketry, featuring production sites in Trenton, Huntsville, Brigham City, and other key locations supporting Redstone, Longhorn, and future space vehicles. Condition-wise, this 1959 SPACE Journal is in used but very good vintage condition. The magazine measures approximately 11 inches by 8.5 inches and is made of standard high-quality period paper stock. The cover exhibits some natural creasing and light edge wear from decades of careful storage and handling, while the interior pages display only the expected gentle yellowing typical of its age but remain crisp, bright, and fully legible throughout. There are no tears, missing pages, stains, or major defects of any kind, preserving the complete original experience of opening a genuine September 1959 issue. The back pages include the full table of contents, editor credits such as B. Spencer Isbell, art director details, and subscription information, adding to its completeness as a pristine brand artifact from the era. Owning this SPACE Journal means holding a tangible piece of the brand's lasting legacy in space journalism. It was the premier go-to source for accurate, engaging, and technically sound coverage when the space race was just igniting, long before NASA became a household name or the first moon landing occurred. Collectors of the SPACE Journal brand will especially appreciate how this specific issue encapsulates the optimism, technical curiosity, and educational mission that defined the publication throughout its run. Whether displayed proudly on a bookshelf alongside other vintage space literature, used as primary source material for studying the evolution of space media and public engagement, or simply enjoyed page by page for its rich historical insights, it offers unparalleled value and connection to the brand that helped shape America's understanding of rockets, guided missiles, and interplanetary exploration in the pivotal year of 1959. The detailed black-and-white illustrations, from the impressive V-2 scale model replica built under NAR rules to the philosophical chalkboard drawing quoting that what is not fully understood is not possessed, further demonstrate the brand's innovative approach to visual storytelling and inspiration. This magazine is far more than old reading material; it is a living historical document from the SPACE Journal brand that continues to educate, entertain, and inspire new generations today. Its perfect combination of hard science reporting, practical model-building advertisements with exact pricing, forward-looking editorials on the need for public space knowledge, and support for grassroots rocketry clubs makes it an essential cornerstone for any serious collection focused on this iconic brand's groundbreaking contributions to the astro-sciences during the dawn of the space age.

 _gsrx_vers_1736 (GS 9.9.5 (1736))

Condition: Very Good

Item specifics

Used - Very good — Vintage 1959 magazine with typical age-related wear including cover creases and minor edge wear, gentle page yellowing throughout, but all pages intact, fully readable, and no missing sections or major damage. — Defects: ['Cover shows creases and light edge wear', 'Minor yellowing on interior pages consistent with 65+ years of age', 'No major tears, stains, or missing pages visible']

Offered by Gosla Antiques & Collectibles, purveyors of antiquities, curiosities and collectible wares. Dispatched from Pennsylvania, United States, with tracking.