AMHERST, N.H. (AP) – A letter written by astronaut Alan Shepard to his parents just before he was accepted into the space program is up for auction.

Shepard, who was born in Derry, wrote to his parents in 1959 telling them about a trip he was taking to Washington to try out for the “Man in Space” program. Two years later, he would become the first American in space.

“Basically, about 100 of the country’s top pilots have been selected to go to Washington to be brief on the plan for putting a man in space sometime during 1961,” he wrote. “We are to be given a chance to volunteer for or reject the opportunity after the briefing. “Thereafter, all volunteers will go through a rigorous elimination process until a handful are selected.”

Shepard told his parents he intended to volunteer and assured them he’d be careful.

“The entire program of space travel is a fascinating subject Dan I’m very pleased to be associated with it!” he wrote. “There is no reason for expression of fear but merely gratitude to be considered for this very important contribution to science and the country.”

Seven astronauts were chosen for the program: Shepard, Scott Carpenter, Gordon Cooper, John Glenn, Gus Grissom, Wally Schirra and Deke Slayton.

Bob Eaton, owner of R-and-R Enterprises, said bidding on three-page letter was at $12,493 during the weekend but he expects it to climb before the auction closes on Wednesday.