Object Details
Manufacturer
Rocketdyne, Division of North American Aviation Co.
Summary
Shown here is an RCS (re-entry control system) thruster used on the manned Gemini spacecraft. This engine, which helped control the spacecraft's attitude (roll, pitch, and yaw) produced a thrust of 25 pounds and used hypergolic (self-igniting) propellants (monomethyl hydrazine and nitrogen tetroxide). The entire RCS system consisted of two independent groupings of eight thrusters each. The system met performance requirements on all manned Gemini flights (Gemini III--Gemini XII) from March 1965 through November 1966.
The McDonnell Aircraft Corporation, the primary contractor for the Gemini spacecraft, awarded a subcontract for the RCS system to the North American Aviation's Rocketdyne Division on February 24, 1962.
Donated by the McDonnell Douglas Corporation.
Credit Line
Transferred to the National Air and Space Museum from the McDonnell Douglas Corporation
Date
ca. 1962-1966
Inventory Number
A19740243000
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
PROPULSION-Rocket Engines
Materials
Stainless Steel
Steel
Phenolic Resin Composite
Aluminum
Plastic
Adhesive
Ink
Synthetic Fabric
Dimensions
10 1/8" x 4 5/8" x 3"
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_A19740243000