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Buran Thermal Tile
The Soviet space shuttle dates back to the '60s when chief designer Sergei Korolov considered the idea of a reusable space-plane. Initial designs were created by Artem Mikoyan (father of the MiG fighter aircraft). Buran (snowstorm) is the same size and remarkably similar to its U.S. counterpart. Like the U.S. Space Shuttle, it is covered with a protective layer of special tiles for protection against the extreme heat generated during re-entry. We have a few authentic tiles - each serial numbered and constructed from a special lightweight "foam glass" material with multiple layers of a proprietary heat-resistant composite coating. Tiles vary in size (approximately 6"x5") and shape (each is cut to exact specifications to fit together like puzzle pieces). They were issued to the Russian Space Agency, but amazingly, never used! Tiles are in near-perfect condition, notwithstanding a hairline crack or tiny chip or two during storage/transit. Quantities are limited, so order now while supplies last.
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