Boilerplate, Command Module, Apollo, #1101A

This boilerplate Apollo command module (S/N 1101A) was used extensively during the early phases of the Apollo program to develop spacecraft recovery equipment and procedures. It was also used to develop an Apollo uprighting system which was needed when the spacecraft splashed down and was in the water with the top down. A system was developed where air bags were inflated to flip the command module into an upright position. The internal features are not representative of an actual Command Module.

A boilerplate is a metal mockup of the same external size as a flight production model. By using a boilerplate, characteristics of the spacecraft design and function can be evaluated without or incurring the expense associated with using a more detailed model. BP 1101A was transferred to the Smithsonian in July 1975.