Author
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Topic: A Career in Space Preservation?
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emeryshores New Member Posts: From: Registered:
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posted 03-16-2009 01:12 AM
I wasn't sure which topic to file this under or if this is the correct type of forum to ask this question. Honestly, this is the best resource I have found when it comes to places of historical interest concerning the space program so I decided I would throw this question out there and see what kind of response I would receive.I am interested in working in the field of preservation. Particularly preservation with 'Space Artifacts' or locations that played a key role in mankind's venture into space. I graduated with a B.A. in History about a year ago and have been dabbling in different aspects of preservation for several years now. I'm not exactly sure which direction I should head in. It would be simple if I could find a Master's Program for "Space Preservation" but unfortunately I don't believe they exist The closest thing I've heard about was some students from the Preservation Program from Columbia working with the Saturn V at the US Rocket Center a few years ago. So would anyone out there have any advice for a young adult who's trying to figure out which direction to head in? I've had a passion for this story since I was a little kid and I am trying to figure out how I can be a part of this incredible field. (And if you suggest 'Email Amanda Young at the National Air and Space Museum and get her advice' don't worry. I already tried that. No response.) Thanks so much for taking the time to read this!! - Chad |
spaceychick Member Posts: 35 From: Lockport, IL USA Registered: Sep 2008
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posted 03-16-2009 08:07 AM
I am by no means an expert, but I have visited all the manned American spacecraft on display and have learned that the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson, Kansas is a leader in the restoration and preservation of space artifacts. As you stated, the Smithsonian also comes to mind as they retain ownership of most of the artfacts.The Collectspace site has a great link to websites that might help. My website also has links to all the museums with spacecraft on display. Best of Luck! ------------------ Lisa "Click the Chick" www.spaceychick.com |
LCDR Scott Schneeweis New Member Posts: From: Registered:
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posted 03-16-2009 08:14 AM
A member of USSRC staff should be in touch Chad. For those of us amateurs who aspire to preserve space history but lack the educational background and aptitude to do so professionally, am particularly envious of your future. Please keep us posted on your efforts to secure a career in the field.Scott ------------------ Scott Schneeweis http://www.SPACEAHOLIC.com/ |
emeryshores New Member Posts: From: Registered:
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posted 03-16-2009 08:25 AM
quote: Originally posted by LCDR Scott Schneeweis: A member of USSRC staff should be in touch Chad.
Thank you so much for your responses!I actually just received an email from the Curator about an hour ago so hopefully she can point me in the right direction. Thanks for connecting me to the right people and for the kind words! |
Mr Meek Member Posts: 353 From: Chattanooga, TN Registered: Dec 2007
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posted 03-16-2009 08:55 AM
Hey, a fellow Chattanoogan. Welcome to cS.The USSRC would be a great opportunity. It's nearby, they always seems to be working on something these days, and you'll have a real chance of running across some forgotten treasures. Good luck with them. |
emeryshores New Member Posts: From: Registered:
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posted 03-19-2009 12:21 PM
I'm actually just north of Chattanooga in Cleveland. It's great to see another local on here. I'm waiting to hear back from the curator again but hopefully I can get something set up with her soon. |
Mr Meek Member Posts: 353 From: Chattanooga, TN Registered: Dec 2007
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posted 03-19-2009 12:35 PM
Cleveland? Recent graduate? I bet we have the same alma mater. However, to avoid cluttering up the forum, I'll send you an email. |
garymilgrom Member Posts: 1966 From: Atlanta, GA Registered: Feb 2007
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posted 03-19-2009 04:20 PM
The area of document restorations is a growing field. I don't mean fixing things in Photoshop, I mean a knowledge of the original paper fibers, inks etc. allows a talented artist to recover or restore information. This might be the way to make a living, and use a specialization in space documents as a window into your passion. Good luck GM |
micropooz Member Posts: 1512 From: Washington, DC, USA Registered: Apr 2003
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posted 03-19-2009 06:44 PM
If you can step up to Organic Chemistry, that is the field to be in for space artifact preservation. The paper artifacts are all organic. The non-organic artifacts are usually protected by organic (eg - plastics like Mylar) materials. The dust and oil contamination on an artifact is usually organic.You'd be a shoo-in! |
emeryshores New Member Posts: From: Registered:
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posted 03-30-2009 07:37 PM
I wanted to thank Scott again for putting me in contact with USSRC. I just got back a few minutes ago from spending the afternoon down there and had a blast. This is a great opportunity for me to build up some experience and I am so grateful that you got me connected Scott. Thank you so much!- Chad |