#United States #Torrance #California Science Center #PlaneTags #Space Shuttle

MotoArt Unveils New Collectible PlaneTags from Space Shuttle Components

On July 9, 2026, MotoArt PlaneTags proudly announced the release of two exclusive collections made from genuine materials of the Space Shuttle's Solid Rocket Booster (SRB). These unique artifacts are not only a nod to space exploration but also a chance for collectors to own a piece of aviation history.

The Limited Edition Collections

The release features two distinct collections aimed at enthusiasts and collectors: 1) the SRB Aft Skirt Collectors Edition, which is crafted from Aft Skirt Serial Number 13, limited to just 2,000 individually numbered pieces, and 2) the SRB Hold-Down Post PlaneTags, made from authentic aft skirt hold-down post material, with a slightly larger limit of 4,000 pieces available.

The inspiration behind this collection stems from MotoArt's partnership with the California Science Center. Following their work at Pinal Airpark to repurpose a Korean Air Boeing 747-400 for the future Korean Air Aviation Gallery in the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, the Science Center approached MotoArt for assistance with the complicated preparations of Aft Skirt Serial Number 13. Other contractors had struggled with the technical aspects of removing this significant artifact from its original state, leading to MotoArt stepping in to expertly facilitate the process.

A Technical Challenge

Working with such heavy and robust materials was no small feat. Certain sections of the aft skirt were up to six inches thick, posing a significant challenge for precision cutting. After several days of meticulous work, the team successfully prepared the aft skirt for its permanent display at the California Science Center. The material that was removed during preparation was preserved and used to create the limited PlaneTags, merging technical expertise with the legacy of the Space Shuttle program.

Preserving Aviation History

MotoArt has a long-standing mission to preserve the heritage of aviation, and according to founder Dave Hall, opportunities to work with pieces of space history are rare. “We’ve spent over 25 years preserving aviation history, but opportunities like this don't come along very often,” Hall shared. He expressed pride in the fact that visitors will not only be able to appreciate the aft skirt in its display within the exhibit but collectors can also own a piece of that same history through the PlaneTags.

A Legacy of Space Exploration

The Aft Skirt Serial Number 13, which featured in the Shuttle launch system, played a role in supporting 11 Space Shuttle missions during a critical time in NASA's history, with its service spanning from 1982 to 2002. The missions included iconic names such as Columbia, Challenger, Atlantis, Discovery, and Endeavour, each contributing to the rich tapestry of space exploration.

Availability of Collections

Collectors can expect to find these limited-edition PlaneTags starting from July 9, 2026, via PlaneTags.com. Notably, subscribers to the SRB Interest List will gain access to a one-hour exclusive preview ahead of the general public. This is a delightful opportunity for passionate fans and collectors eager to enhance their collections with a tangible and historical artifact.

About MotoArt PlaneTags

Founded in 2001, MotoArt PlaneTags transforms retired aircraft and aerospace materials into functional art and keepsakes that honor and preserve aviation and spaceflight history. Based in Torrance, California, MotoArt prides itself on creating PlaneTags from hundreds of historic aerospace artifacts around the globe.

For aviation enthusiasts and collectors alike, the announcement of these limited-edition PlaneTags not only represents a new product release but also a deeper connection to the narrative of human space exploration and the legacies of those who have ventured into the cosmos.