NASA MLP-2

Please note: due to the popularity of this PlaneTags release, and the extensive handwork necessary, shipping of orders is 1 - 2 weeks.

We have liftoff! The newest PlaneTag from MotoArt has launched. Introducing our NASA MLP-2 PlaneTags, created from the Mobile Launch Platform that connected mankind to the cosmos. Our PlaneTags are made from the TSMs, the last connection between the Space Shuttle and earth.

NASA's Mobile Launchers were initially developed in 1963 to support the Apollo program, then later modified for the Space Shuttle program and rechristened Mobile Launch Platforms (MLP). These massive two-story structures supported Saturn V rockets, and later the Space Shuttle stack during the build-up and launch stages. The 6 million pound structure could support an additional 12 million pounds during assembly before being transported to launch complex 39. Once positioned, the MLP served as the actual launch platform. 

The Tail Service Masts (TSM) were two large structures on both sides of the Shuttle main engine exhaust hole. The TSMs provided umbilical connections to the shuttle orbiter, feeding propellants from the launch pad tanks, as well as helium and nitrogen, purge air, electrical power, and comm links. The umbilicals rapidly retracted into the TSM at launch and were protected from the flames by trap blast doors. The TSMs were literally the last thing to touch the Space Shuttle before its ascension. 

As Mobile Launcher-2 (ML-2) it launched the uncrewed Apollo 6 mission, followed by the crewed 9th, 12th, and 14th missions, and finally Skylab aboard a Saturn V in 1973. Read more about it on our blog.

As Mobile Launch Platform-2 (MLP-2):

• Used for 44 Space Shuttle launches, beginning in 1983
• Every orbiter, except for Columbia, launched on their maiden flights from MLP-2
• Launch pad for Space Shuttle Challenger's final flight

MotoArt is honored to have the opportunity to preserve this historic space exploration artifact and create the incredible MLP-2 PlaneTag. These are our thickest PlaneTags yet - ½ inch thick hardened steel, waterjet cut and laser etched, and attached to an aluminum display card with a magnet. This collectible will be cherished for generations to come. The MLP never left earth but our NASA MLP-2 PlaneTags are out of this world. Get yours now.

NASA MLP-2- Mobile Launcher Platform-2

Mobile Launch Platform Specifications:

• Manufacturer: INGALLS IRON WORKS
• BUILD YEAR: 1964
• LENGTH:160 FT
• WIDTH: 135 FT
  
• HEIGHT: 25 FT
• PEDESTALS: 6 X 22 FT
• EMPTY WEIGHT: 9.25 Million LB
  
• w/UNFUELED SHUTTLE WEIGHT: 12.02 Million LB
  
• w/FUELED SHUTTLE WEIGHT: 13.72 Million LB
  

Tail Service Mast Specifications:

• LENGTH: 15 FT
• WIDTH: 9 FT
  
• HEIGHT: 31 FT
  
• CONNECTIONS: LIQUID HYDROGEN, LIQUID OXYGEN, GROUND ELECTRICAL POWER, AND COMMUNICATION LINKS

Perfect Aviation Gift

PlaneTags are: 

• Authentic - made from actual retired TSM material, not merely stamped metal. 
• Unique -  each PlaneTag bears the color, thickness, and wear and tear from the portion of the MLP-2 from which it was cut and it is therefore rare to create two identical PlaneTags. 
• Collectible - each one is numbered in a limited edition and comes attached to a display card. 

*Important Notice – Please Read Carefully

PlaneTags are made from actual retired TSM material, not merely stamped metal. Because PlaneTags are made from real TSM material, each PlaneTag bears the color, thickness, and wear and tear from the portion of the MLP-2 from which it was cut and it is therefore rare to create two identical PlaneTags. These variations and imperfections are not product flaws. They are part of the beauty of PlaneTags. As a result, you will not have an option to select the color of your PlaneTag. The images on this website are provided for reference only and should not be used as the sole basis for choosing a particular PlaneTag.