Object Details
Manufacturer
Atkins & Merril
Summary
This is a replica of the world's first liquid-fuel rocket flown by Robert H. Goddard on March 16, 1926 at Auburn, Mass. The rocket, propelled by liquid oxygen and gasoline, went up to an altitude of 41 feet (12.5 m) in 2.5 seconds and landed 184 feet (56 m) away. The replica was made by Atkins & Merrill of Sudbury, Mass., based upon original photos. No blueprints of the original rocket were found.
Goddard began experimenting with rockets from 1915 as means of exploring the upper atmosphere and eventually space. He started with solid propellants, but in 1921 switched to liquids because they contained more energy and were also controllable. NASA donated the replica to the Smithsonian in 1976
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Inventory Number
A19761803000
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
MODELS-Missiles & Rockets
Materials
aluminum, steel, asbestos-impregnated cloth
Dimensions
Overall: 1 ft. 2 in. wide x 10 ft. 8 3/4 in. long x 5 1/2 in. diameter, 6 lb. (35.56 x 327.03 x 13.97cm, 2.7kg); Other (Launch Frame): 7 ft. 11 in. tall x 4 ft. wide x 5 ft. 5 in. long (241.3 x 121.92 x 165.1cm)
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
Rockets & Missiles
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nasm_A19761803000