$249.95
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):
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.
PlaneTags are:
*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.
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Going away from great pieces of aviation history, MotoArt hits another out to space with this thick piece of NASA history. This tag (more like a paperweight), is heavy, and it shows plenty of wear from the multiple shuttles, Apollo rockets, and liquid nitrogen burning fuel this piece of metal has withstood. Love that the card is aluminum as well with a magnet holding this tag in place. Watch out if barefoot as this tag doesn’t feel well when dropped on it! It’s one small step for man, one giant leap for MotoArt!!! Bravo as always!!!
While very expensive, being able to hold such a heft piece of metal from American history is iconic!
Mobile Launch Plataform MLP-2 #00605 of 20,000 . . . . . three two one lift off. and I ended up getting three, and that's ok. One is going to a great friend of mine that has been a loyal/devoted fan of Space and anything that has NASA involvement. Since I am not taking this one to to the grave [with me] I am planning to leave one of each of my two guys. I don't know about the rest of you guys but my tag is pretty, pretty thick/fat. And yes I said it, it's fat!!! and pretty well done. A nice art/engraving with a metal back plate. If you decide to display this item on your wall, do yourself a favor by contracting a Civil Engineer, or someone with NASA background for consulting and studies.
My NASA MLP tag arrived and is a work of art. Well made and feels strong from every angle. I can sense the history of all of the space launches this tag represents.
After buying three different PlaneTags, I decided to get this one. I've read in other reviews that they think it is kind of expensive for just a piece of metal, but that depends on your appreciation of the United States Space Program. Sure, it is just a piece of metal, but it's also a piece of actual hardware that helped the Space Shuttle launches. For those people that are thinking of buying this, I recommend it and I’ll also give you some pointers on what you’re getting: 1.- It comes in a custom cardboard box. The other tags I bought came in simple yellow envelopes (even when I bought two of them in the same order). This one comes in a cute cardboard box that has some text stating that the item enclosed within is part of the MLP-2, along with a drawing of the Space Shuttle in the Launch Platform. 2.- This item should be intended for display only. While the other PlaneTags could be used as keyrings or luggage tags -but sincerely, I would discourage such use for these valuable historical items- this is a solid hunk of metal, so it has no hole or chain to attach other items to it. This is more a decorative piece than a "tag" of any kind (and with a weight of several grams, would you really want to torture your car's ignition or pockets with something like this?) 3.- Related to the last point, in contrast to the regular PlaneTags that come with a cardboard back panel -which includes some nice graphics and the description of the tag you're holding- the increased weight of this one means that simple cardboard wouldn't cut it, so the information is printed on a quite nice piece of aluminium. Since this whole set is targeted more to fans, this includes a magnet, so the MLP-2 tag stays attached to it, which looks really, really nice. So, if you're just looking for a luggage tag or something space related, this may not be what you're looking for, especially for the price. But if you are a space buff or historian, this is a definite must for your collection.
Awesome item. I like anything having to do with the Space Shuttle.
I have always been a NASA fanatic and was devastated when they ended the Space Shuttle Program. Being able to have a piece of the MLP-2 Launcher is an awesome reminder of how great the Shuttles were. The tag is very well made and is HEAVY! Definitely the most unique tag I have.
I bought this item for my son’s birthday.We live in the UK, but did go to watch Atlantis take off in 2009, so this brought back an exciting memory. Excellent quality.
Great memento of the shuttle program. Was happy to learn that this came from the launch platform that was used for the shuttle mission I worked on (STS-49). Item was especially packed and is of high quality.
I assumed it was like all of your others. Not a big clunk of steel
Awesome! It’s a piece of Space Shuttle history, and I’m honored to have it in my collection!
Awesome addition to my collection
It is a nice high-quality item, but expensive and not worth the money. IMO
Nice piece for a piece of history added to my space exploration collection.
If you are a space nerd you have to buy one of these. The tag weighs quite a lot and the backing is a piece of sheet metal. The magnet that holds it in place is powerful enough to display on your fridge no problem. They also ship in a box printed just for this tag. If the price wasn’t as much I would have bought two.
This piece of the launch pad is truly amazing. It has nice weight and just looks cool. I have several other tags and besides the SR71, This is my favorite.
Such an interesting piece of history. Shared it's story with many family and friends.
It's a great tag to display and an amazing piece of history to have. It's also a great conversation starter.
This piece is unique there are no two of the same, a work of art
A truly unique and eye catching piece of memorabilia. A must for anyone who followed the shuttle program and the heroic crews.
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