Object Details
Manufacturer
Thiokol
Summary
Shown here is an ignitor, manufactured by the Thiokol Chemical Corporation, used to fire the solid-propellant retrorocket necessary to slow NASA's Surveyor spacecraft during descent to the surface of the moon.
NASA ran this program from 1966 to 1968 to demonstrate the feasibility of soft landings on the moon. Five of the seven spacecraft launched aboard Atlas-Centaur rockets successfully landed on the lunar surface.
Donated by NASA-Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Inventory Number
A19790716000
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
PROPULSION-Accessories (to an Engine)
Materials
Overall, stainless steel; steel cylindrical section; gold L-shaped pipes and gold braided wires
Stainless Steel
Aluminum
Gold plating
Copper Alloy
Plastic
Synthetic Fabric
Foam
Adhesive
Lubricant
Ink
Paper
Dimensions
Overall: 6 1/2in. x 5 1/2in. x 6 1/2in. (16.5 x 14 x 16.5cm)
Country of Origin
United States of America
See more items in
National Air and Space Museum Collection
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nasm_A19790716000