Rocket Thrower, Bronze sculpture in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, United States
Rocket Thrower is a 43-foot-tall bronze figure in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park showing a muscular man launching a sphere into the sky. The sculpture depicts him reaching upward with his left hand toward stars while his body conveys the force and motion of the throw.
This work was created by Donald De Lue for the 1964 World's Fair as a symbol of human optimism about space exploration. After decades exposed to New York weather, the sculpture underwent restoration in 2019 and was returned to public view.
The figure embodies human drive to explore space by combining classical form with modern aspirations. Visitors see in the man's pose a blend of ancient heroism and contemporary hope.
The monument sits east of the Unisphere in the Hall of Astronauts section and is easily reached on foot. The best time to visit is in good weather when the bronze surface gleams in sunlight and the surroundings are fully visible.
The 2019 restoration brought a subtle change that visitors often miss: gold leaf was applied to the constellation of stars above the figure for the first time since its original installation. This shimmering addition gives the sculpture a fresh visual quality.
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