Blue Marble Poster | NASA Untethered Spacewalk McCandless 1984 Photo

Celebrate one of NASA's most iconic moments with The Blue Marble poster by Swell Scenes. Featuring astronaut Bruce McCandless II floating alone 320 feet from Space Shuttle Challenger with Earth's brilliant blue sphere behind him, this historic February 7, 1984 photograph captures the ultimate symbol of human courage and space exploration. Perfect for space enthusiasts, NASA fans, science educators, aerospace professionals, and anyone inspired by humanity's journey beyond Earth.

Why You'll Love It

• Historic NASA Moment: First untethered spacewalk in human history—Bruce McCandless II became the first human satellite, propelled only by the Manned Maneuvering Unit jetpack.
• Iconic Space Photography: Stunning contrast between astronaut, deep space, and Earth's vibrant blue creates one of the most recognizable images in space exploration history.
• Perfect Space Gift: Ideal for NASA enthusiasts, aerospace engineers, science teachers, STEM students, astronomy buffs, or anyone who dreams of space exploration.
• Inspiring Statement Piece: Adds wonder and courage to offices, classrooms, home offices, STEM labs, or any space celebrating human achievement and exploration.

About the First Untethered Spacewalk

On February 7, 1984, during NASA's STS-41B mission aboard Space Shuttle Challenger, astronaut Bruce McCandless II made history by performing the first untethered spacewalk—floating free in space with no safety line connecting him to the spacecraft. Using the revolutionary Manned Maneuvering Unit (MMU), a nitrogen-propelled jetpack, McCandless ventured 320 feet away from Challenger, becoming the first human to fly completely free in space. This six-hour spacewalk tested equipment that would prove crucial for satellite repairs and future space station construction. The photograph—showing McCandless suspended against the black void of space with Earth's radiant blue atmosphere below—instantly became one of the most powerful images of the Space Age. McCandless, a Navy pilot and NASA astronaut since 1966, served as CAPCOM for Apollo 11's historic moon landing before his own legendary moment in 1984. The image embodies humanity's boldest aspirations: the courage to venture into the unknown, the ingenuity to develop new technologies, and the drive to push boundaries that seemed impossible. The MMU allowed astronauts unprecedented freedom during spacewalks, though it was retired after 1984 due to safety concerns following the Challenger disaster two years later. This photograph remains a testament to human bravery and the pioneering spirit that drives space exploration—a lone figure floating in the cosmos, representing all of humanity's reach toward the stars.

Print & Frame Details

• Premium 189gsm matte paper using archival pigment inks
• Rich colors capturing deep space black and Earth's vibrant blue
• Framed options include a 0.75″ (1.9 cm) Ayous wood frame in black, white, or natural
• Lightweight Acrylite front protector and hanging hardware included
• Available in multiple sizes, framed or unframed
• Printed to order to reduce waste and support sustainable practices

Thoughtful Craftsmanship

At Swell Scenes, every print is made to order with museum-quality materials. Our space exploration art series celebrates historic moments and achievements that inspire wonder — made for those who look up and dream of what's possible.

About Swell Scenes

Swell Scenes turns iconic moments in space exploration and human achievement into bold, beautiful artwork that fits any space. With a passion for NASA history, scientific discovery, and design, our posters celebrate the moments that inspire humanity to reach beyond Earth.