Joy Stick Collection

Boeing 747-8 flight deck. Most flight information is displayed on screens instead of separate mechanical instruments in this glass cockpit. Photographed at the 2011 Paris Air Show

Military aircraft cockpit with head-up display. Photographed at the 2009 Paris Air Show

Boy on 80S Computer
A boy sits at a desk typing on his Commodore 64 keyboard. A printer, joystick and lamp sit on the desk. Two televisions and a strange model of a mushroom are in the background

Boys playing a video game
MODEL RELEASED. Boys playing a video game

Boy playing a video game
MODEL RELEASED. Boy playing a video game

Video game one, 1controller
Video game controller. This handheld controller is connected to a console (not seen) and is used to navigate through the game

Apollo lunar module cabin mock-up
Mock-up of the Apollo lunar module cabin, showing two triangular windows, a facsimile of the control panel and astronauts hand-controllers, and the exit hatch below

Military aircraft flight simulator. Photographed at the 2009 Paris Air Show

First Steps for the Future Pilot
An ingenious device for teaching beginners the rudiments of controlling an aeroplane in 1931. The little machine which flies in a strong draught of air ejected from the cylinder on the left

For sale as Licensed Images

Choose your image, Select your licence and Download the media

From the Boeing 747-8 flight deck to military aircraft cockpits, the joy stick has been a symbol of control and precision in aviation. But its influence extends far beyond the skies. Remember those nostalgic days when an 80s computer was your gateway to virtual adventures? The joy stick was your trusty companion, guiding you through pixelated worlds with excitement. Fast forward to today, where boys huddle around video game consoles, their hands gripping that familiar joy stick as they immerse themselves in thrilling battles and epic quests. Whether it's a single controller or multiple players competing together, the joy stick remains at the heart of gaming experiences. But it doesn't stop there – our mobile phones have become mini-gaming devices too. With just a touch on our screens or by attaching external controllers resembling joy sticks, we can transport ourselves into endless entertainment possibilities. Even in space exploration history, the iconic Apollo lunar module cabin mock-up featured joysticks as astronauts navigated their way across uncharted territories on their incredible lunar missions. And let's not forget about military aircraft flight simulators where aspiring pilots train using realistic joystick controls. The joy stick is more than just a tool; it embodies pure exhilaration and unlimited potential for fun and adventure. Across different eras and platforms, this humble device continues to bring us moments of sheer delight.