Object Details
Manufacturer
North American Rockwell
Summary
When an Apollo command module landed in the ocean, it could settle into one of two stable positions: nose-up or nose-down. If it was nose-down, its recovery antennas would be underwater, and it increased the possibility that the spacecraft might flood. To turn the command module upright, three floatable bags were installed in a forward compartment. Astronauts could right the spacecraft by inflating the bags using two air compressors located in the aft (blunt) end of the spacecraft, which were connected to the bags with tubing.
This is one of three flotation bags used on Apollo 11 at the end of its historic lunar landing mission on July 24, 1969. The astronauts deployed it after the command module settled nose down, enabling the spacecraft to right itself about six and half minutes after splashdown.
This artifact was transferred from NASA to the Smithsonian in 1973.
Alternate Name
Apollo 11 Flotation Bag
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, through Rockwell International
Inventory Number
A19740500000
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
SPACECRAFT-Crewed-Parts & Structural Components
Materials
Rubberized fabric
Dimensions
Overall: 3 ft. 8 in. diameter (111.76cm)
Country of Origin
United States of America
See more items in
National Air and Space Museum Collection
Location
Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA
Exhibit Station
Human Spaceflight
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nasm_A19740500000
