Spacelab

The Spacelab pinball machine, designed by Steve Kordek with art by Christian Marche, was produced by Williams Electronics starting March 28, 1974, as a limited run of only 30 units (Model 444). It is a notable, scarce entry in the electro-mechanical era of pinball, distinct from the more common Model 443 'Spacelab' that followed it as a factory conversion.

Gameplay-wise, Spacelab features two flippers, two pop bumpers, two slingshots, and five captive balls arranged in a looping feature. When five balls are on the lit side, the player scores "Special." The game is an Add-A-Ball model rather than a Replay game -- Williams documentation and the backbox's operator option plugs suggest this limited run may have been intended for markets like Italy, where replay-mechanism games were outlawed at the time.

The machine's design reflects the aesthetic of 1970s science fiction. The backglass features five silkscreened stars that only become visible when illuminated from behind, adding an extra layer of visual interest. The sound effects, including three chimes and a knocker, round out the presentation. With only 30 units built, Spacelab is a rare piece of pinball history for collectors and enthusiasts to discover.