Object Details
Manufacturer
Mattel, Inc.
Summary
This Toys R' Us Astronaut Barbie doll issued by Mattel in 1994 commemorates the twenty-fifth anniversary of the first human landing on the Moon by Apollo 11 in 1969.
Invented by Mattel Toys co-founder Ruth Handler in 1958, Barbie dolls were conceived as a toy that would allow children to play with a doll of an adult woman, not a baby or child/companion. As such, Barbie dolls allowed their owners to act out the life of a young woman with a career. In the history of this popular toy, the Barbie doll has taken on several aviation- and space-themed jobs, including several versions of Barbie as a stewardess, astronaut, and pilot.
Although several different Barbie dolls have been issued dressed in space-themed outfits, this depiction of the doll as an Apollo astronaut did not attempt a precise representation. The design is more commemorative than accurate.
This doll and costume was donated to the Museum by Mattel in 1995.
Credit Line
Gift of Mattel, Inc.
Date
ca. 1994
Inventory Number
A20070119000
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
MEMORABILIA-Popular Culture
Materials
Plastic, polyester, paper, velcro
Dimensions
3-D: 7 x 3.8 x 29.2cm (2 3/4 x 1 1/2 x 11 1/2 in.)
Country of Origin
CHINA
See more items in
National Air and Space Museum Collection
Location
Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA
Hangar
James S. McDonnell Space Hangar
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nasm_A20070119000