1961 Map of Outer Space
The Vintage Map Shop, Inc.
Regular price $45.00
Unit price per
By: Russell Ross & Philip LaSalle
Date of Original: July 9, 1961 (dated) Philadelphia, PA
Original Size: 21 x 28 inches
This is a fine print reproduction of an imaginative mid-century illustration of Outer Space that appeared in the Rotocomics section of The Philadelphia Inquirer on July 9, 1961. Created at the dawn of the Space Age, the large double-page spread presents a vivid interpretation of the solar system as it was popularly understood, combining factual planetary data with speculative visions of future exploration.
The artwork reflects how the public viewed the cosmos before the Moon landing, when much about the outer planets remained mysterious and the idea of living in orbit had only begun to enter mainstream thought. Each planet is labeled with brief notes on its distance from the Sun, orbital speed, and characteristics, all radiating around a bright yellow central Sun. Orbiting it are stylized spacecraft, including a “construction rocket,” “planet explorer,” and “space platform,” along with astronauts in red suits carrying out imagined tasks in space.
The illustration embodies the optimism that defined early space exploration, created at a moment when Project Mercury was still underway and President Kennedy had only recently set the nation’s sights on reaching the Moon. Its mix of comic-inspired color, futuristic rocket designs, and educational diagrams—including an “Interplanetary Weight Chart” and “Space Ship Time Schedule”—offered readers an engaging way to understand both the science and the imagination fueling America’s expanding view of the universe.
Inventory #13150
About Our Prints
Our prints are fine art reproductions created from original antique maps and vintage posters in our collection, dating back to over 500 years. Each image is professionally scanned, in some cases digitally restored, and carefully printed to preserve the detail, tone, and character of the original work.
- Printed from original maps and prints in our collection
- High-resolution scans for exceptional clarity and detail
- Produced on premium archival paper for long-lasting quality
- Rich color and sharp definition suitable for framing
- Includes a 0.25 inch margin for trimming or matting
- Made to order and securely packaged for safe delivery
Returns and Exchanges
Our prints are made to order, so returns and exchanges are handled within a simple 14-day window. If you need to return or exchange a print, we ask that it be sent back in its original, undamaged condition.
- Returns accepted within 14 days of delivery
- 25% restocking fee on non-damaged returns
- Buyer pays return shipping
- Refunds issued to the original payment method
- Size exchanges available, with shipping and applicable fees paid by the buyer