Missile, Surface-to-Surface, Minuteman II, Post-Boost Propulsion System

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Object Details

Manufacturer

Boeing Company

Summary

Shown here is the post-boost propulsion system for the Minuteman II intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). Unlike the solid-propellant lower stages, the post-boost system carried liquid propellants to help steer the missile. The system consists of small propellant tanks and a smaller helium tank to provide pressure to force the propellants into the combustion chambers.

Upon precise electronic commands, the system activates small bursts of thrust from four equidistant nozzles around the wall of the missile, thereby correctiing its attitude.

Bell Aerosystems donated the post-boost propulsion system to the Smithsonian in 1968.

Credit Line

Bell Aerosystems Co,

Date

ca. 1964-1966

Inventory Number

A19680574000

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply

Type

CRAFT-Missiles & Rockets

Materials

Aluminum

Stainless Steel

Paint

Phenolic Resin

Fiberglass

Plastic

Adhesive

Paper

Ink

Rubber

Steel

Cadmium Plating

Dimensions

Overall: 45.1 × 110.5cm (17 3/4 × 43 1/2 in.)

Overall: 326.6kg (720lb.)

Storage: 123.5 × 123.2 × 61cm (48 5/8 × 48 1/2 × 24 in.)

Country of Origin

United States of America

See more items in

National Air and Space Museum Collection

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Metadata Usage

Not determined

Link to Original Record

http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/nv939a9fac8-dfdf-4e52-b0a3-be2801cc22f2

Record ID

nasm_A19680574000