This NASA joystick used during lunar orbit just sold for $56,000

In 1969, astronaut Richard Gordon used this hand controller to steer the Apollo 12 command and service module Yankee Clipper around the moon while his colleagues frolicked on the lunar surface. The controller, complete with trigger switch, just sold at auction for $56,000. I hope the buyer is using it to mod a vintage Lunar Lander arcade machine. From the RR Auction "Space and Aviation Auction":

...Measuring 2.75 x 4.75 x 2.5 overall, with affixed Class III, Not For Flight label and underside of base marked with part numbers: S/N 16, 10022865-101, 94580. The controller, with trigger switch, is secured to a walnut 4.75 x 8 x 1 base with upper and lower plaques, Apollo 12, Nov. 14-24, 1969 and Rotational Hand Controller, with handwritten notation to underside: RG, 93-002b. This spring-loaded hand controller was used to control pitch, roll, and yaw while Gordon navigated in lunar orbit. In fine condition.

Read the rest