“Niagara Falls, N.Y., July 3 – MOON MEN – Two astronauts, in this sketch, fly over the surface of the moon using a lunar rocket belt back packs for propulsion. The belt contains a four-hour life support system which would provide the necessary oxygen and temperature control for a short mission. The rocket belt idea is being explored by Bell Aerosystems Co.” (AP Wirephoto) 1965
The Bell Rocket Belt was demonstrated to the US Army, but they were not impressed by its limited flight time and range. The project was eventually cancelled, but the rocket belt became popular in movies, TV shows, and public events. For example, it was used in the 1965 James Bond film “Thunderball,” the 1984 Summer Olympics opening ceremony in Los Angeles, and the “Lost in Space” television series.
