This model and image housed in a wood case depict a Soviet SA-2 surface-to-air missile site at La Coloma, Cuba, during the Cuban Missile Crisis. At the height of the confrontation in October 1962, either an Air Force or Navy aircraft on a low-level reconnaissance mission took the photograph. It was the only mission during the crisis that used color film. The National Photographic Interpretation Center built this particular model in 1965 from wood, sand, and wire for use at a Cuban Missile Crisis exhibit at the Central Intelligence Agency's headquarters. The agency transferred the case to the Museum after the exhibit closed in the 1970s.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
MODELS-Miscellaneous
Manufacturer
National Photographic Interpretation Center
Dimensions
Other: 4in. x 2ft 2in. x 2ft 3in. (10.16 x 66.04 x 68.58cm)
Materials
sand, wood, unknown synthetic (vegitation), and wire model; paper photo; cardboard, steel, brass and wood display case
Inventory Number
A19771266000
Credit Line
Transferred from the Central Intelligence Agency
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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