Tintin And The Rocket On The Moon – Porcelain Mug In Display Box – 47987

Artist: Hergé
Price: £19 including UK postage
Manufacturer: Moulinsart
Format: Ceramic in original packaging
Condition: Brand new
Size: Diameter: 7.5cm Height: 9.2cm

Tintin And The Rocket On The Moon: A Short Description

Tintin’s Moon rocket, an iconic symbol of space exploration within his adventures, represents a remarkable fusion of scientific imagination and storytelling flair. Sleek, elegant, and instantly recognisable by its distinctive red and white chequered pattern, the rocket plays a central role in one of Tintin’s most ambitious and technically detailed stories – his journey to the Moon.

The rocket is the brainchild of Professor Cuthbert Calculus, the brilliant but eccentric scientist who conceives, designs, and supervises its construction at the Sprodj Atomic Research Centre, a high-security facility located in the fictional country of Syldavia. With a passion for nuclear physics and astronomical engineering, Calculus spearheads the project with unwavering determination, developing a nuclear-powered propulsion system capable of lifting a manned craft out of Earth’s atmosphere and safely guiding it to the lunar surface.
Physically, the rocket is tall and needle-shaped, resting on three wide fins for stability during launch and landing. Its chequered red-and-white livery is both visually striking and practical, making the craft highly visible against the stark backgrounds of both Earth and space. The interior is compact but carefully arranged, with control panels, living quarters, storage space, and a sealed cabin to maintain air pressure and oxygen for its passengers.

The crew consists of Tintin, Captain Haddock, Professor Calculus, Snowy the dog, and the unexpected additions of Thomson and Thompson. The rocket is designed to carry them all, though every gram of weight is accounted for in Calculus’s meticulously calculated equations. Before departure, the rocket undergoes extensive testing, including simulated launches and gravitational training, reinforcing the story’s commitment to scientific realism. The launch itself is a landmark moment, executed with tension and precision. As the engines ignite and the rocket rises from the launchpad, the noise and power of the take-off are vividly depicted, creating a sense of both triumph and awe. Once in space, the crew experiences weightlessness for the first time, resulting in a mixture of wonder and comic mishaps—particularly for Captain Haddock, who finds the floating whisky bottle both confusing and frustrating.

During the journey, the rocket must navigate not only the vacuum and silence of space, but also internal threats. A stowaway, saboteur Colonel Jorgen, poses a mortal risk to the crew and mission. Despite these challenges, Tintin successfully pilots the rocket to a controlled landing on the Moon’s surface, where the team begins a series of scientific experiments and exploratory excursions. The Moon rocket proves more than a means of transport—it is a fully functioning base of operations on the lunar surface. It provides shelter, life support, and communication systems, allowing the crew to survive in the otherwise hostile environment. Its design includes airlocks, radio systems, and oxygen supplies, all of which are critical to the success of the mission.

After their time on the Moon, the rocket is launched once again for the return journey to Earth. By this point, supplies are dwindling, and the crew faces grave risks, including a dangerous lack of oxygen. The rocket becomes a place of both physical protection and emotional strain, as the characters confront life-or-death decisions in the silence of space. Ultimately, the rocket completes its mission with a successful return to Earth, re-entering the atmosphere and landing safely. Its journey is a testament to the ingenuity, teamwork, and resilience of those on board. More than just a machine, it symbolises humankind’s eternal drive to explore the unknown and the belief that even the most daring dreams can be realised through intellect, perseverance, and courage.

In the context of Tintin’s world, the Moon rocket stands as a marvel of fictional engineering and an enduring image of adventure. It combines bold design with narrative purpose, anchoring one of the most ambitious and technically impressive storylines in the series. It is not just a vehicle—it is a character in its own right, carrying with it the hopes, fears, and triumphs of Tintin and his companions on their journey into the stars.

ENDURING APPEAL

The combination of Tintin’s heroic spirit, Hergé’s masterful art, and the series’ blend of humour, adventure, and cultural awareness make The Adventures of Tintin timeless. It continues to captivate readers of all ages, embodying the thrill of exploration and the universal struggle between good and evil.

HORNSEYS: A DESTINATION FOR TINTIN MEMORABILIA

Since 1976, Hornseys has established itself as a trusted source for collectors and enthusiasts seeking unique and eclectic items. Our commitment to quality and authenticity has earned us a reputation for excellence. Among our most collections is our extensive range of products related to Hergé’s iconic series, “The Adventures of Tintin”. This beloved series, which has captivated audiences for decades, is celebrated through our carefully curated selection of rare first edition books and exquisitely crafted 1/24 scale model cars, figures, and resin models. All of these items are available to view in our Ripon gallery.

WHY BUY FROM US?

At Hornseys, we only offer items that meet the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Our inventory is carefully curated to ensure each piece is authentic and of high quality.

HERE’S WHAT SETS US APART

Authenticity and Provenance: Every item is researched, collated, and verified for authenticity.
Expert Curation: Each item is selected with a keen eye for historical significance, condition, and rarity, ensuring a collection that is both diverse and distinguished.
Customer Satisfaction: We strive to provide an exceptional customer experience, from detailed descriptions and provenance to secure and prompt delivery of your purchase.
Returns Policy: We offer an unconditional guarantee on every item. If you wish to make a return, items may be sent back to us within fourteen days of receipt for any reason. We request advance notification of returns, and items must be returned in the same condition as sent for a full refund.

EXPLORE OUR COLLECTION

Visit Hornseys to explore our fine collection of rare and antique prints, posters, models and photographs. Whether you are an avid collector or looking for a unique historical piece, our selection offers something truly exceptional. Located in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales, our Ripon gallery has been a haven for art enthusiasts, historians, and collectors since 1976.

Thank you for looking.