You can imagine that if today the 12-story spherical globe structure known as the Unisphere in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park still holds the distinction of being the Biggest World on Earth, back in 1964 that certainly was a title of acclaim! And with the recent repairs – after 15-20 years without operation – of the fountains surrounding the Unisphere, there’s the feeling of a new hope in Queens! Check out the awesome videos below for some remarkable footage of the Unisphere during its birth, including Robert Moses addressing the city, some “high-speed computers” doing mathematics, wind-tunnel tests and awesome construction shots!

(these photos courtesy of LIFE)