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Max Kronstein

Dr. Max Kronstein (1895–1992) was a remarkable figure in the world of aerophilately and astrophilately. His passion for these fields spanned over seventy years, during which he made significant contributions. His unwavering dedication to aerophilately and astrophilately left an indelible mark on the world of philately and postal history. His passion and contributions continue to inspire enthusiasts and researchers alike.

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Here are some key points about Dr. Kronstein.

  1. Rocket Mail Authority:
    • Dr. Kronstein established himself as an early authority on Rocket Mail. He delved into this fascinating intersection of mail delivery and technology, even publishing two important histories:
      • “Pioneer Airpost Flights of the World 1830-1935”
      • “Rocket Mail Post Flights of the World to 1986”
  2. Research and Publications:
    • His expertise extended beyond Rocket Mail. Dr. Kronstein conducted in-depth research in the field of aerophilately.
    • He authored articles for the Air Post Journal, a publication by the American Air Mail Society.
    • His written works included the aforementioned books, notably “Pioneer Airpost Flights of the World 1830–1935” and “Rocket Mail Flights of the World to 1986”.
  3. Catalog Efforts:
    • Dr. Kronstein focused on cataloging early European flight covers and Zeppelin covers for the American Air Mail Catalogue.
    • His meticulous efforts contributed to the preservation and understanding of historical airmail artifacts.
  4. Honors and Awards:
    • The American Air Mail Society recognized his outstanding contributions by inducting him into its Hall of Fame.
    • Dr. Kronstein received prestigious awards, including the Walter J. Conrath Memorial Award, the George W. Angers Memorial Award, and the first Gatchell Literature Award.
  5. Moon Mail and Friedrich Schmiedl:
    • Dr. Kronstein gained widespread attention for sending postmarked Air Mail covers addressed to astronauts on the moon.
    • His close association with Friedrich Schmiedl, the father of Rocket Mail, further solidified his legacy in this unique field.

I’m interested in the space-related covers that Dr. Kronstein made, and in particular those with hand-made labels affixed to commemorate US space events, such as those shown below.

Saturn SA-1 Launch – 27th Oct 1961:


Saturn SA-2 Launch – 25th Apr 1962:


Project Mercury / Scott Carpenter / MA-7 ‘Aurora 7’ – 24th May 1962:


X-15 Flight # 65 (Joe Walker) – 2nd Aug 1962:


Mariner 2 Launch – 27th Aug 1962:


Ranger 6 Impacts Moon – 2nd Feb 1964:


X-15 Flight # 111 (Joe Engle) – 9th Jul 1964:


Ranger 7 Launch – 28th Jul 1964:


X-15 Flight # 116 (Milt Thompson) – 4th Sep 1964:


Saturn SA-7 Launch – 18th Sep 1964:


Mariner 4 Launch – 28th Nov 1964:


X-15 Flight # 145 (Robert Rushworth) – 26th Aug 1965:


Apollo 6 Launch – 4th Apr 1968:


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