SERGEI KOROLEV (1907-1966) Chief designer and architect of the Soviet space program, the genius and inspiration behind Soviet space exploration, his very existence was kept a secret. Especially rare fine content A.Ms.S. signed twice at conclusion, 4pp. 12mo., in Russian, being the text of a speech or letter directed toward Soviet scientists and technicians in Kaliningrad at the end of 1964. Korolev's congratulatory text reads in part: "...Dear Comrades! I am sending you my best New Year wishes for 1965 - every success in your work...This past 1964 our collective was marked with important labor achievements. I want to express my hope that in1965 the workers, engineers and technicians, employees and scientists of our enterprise will accomplish with credit all the new primary tasks of the Party and the Government...significant attention should be paid to further improvement of labor and living conditions, as well as the broadening of the possibilities of cultural relaxation. We will have to do much in our town in this direction... ". 1964 was a relatively slow year for the Soviet space program, with only one hastily-arranged flight, namely the Voskhod I. The mission was spurred by Khrushchev who no doubt was bristling over the five upcoming American Gemini missions. An excellent and very rare text, in very good condition. $600-800