Object Details
Manufacturer
Hercules, Inc. Explosives and Chemical Propulsion Division
Summary
This is a full-scale mockup of an extended BE-3-B solid propellant rocket motor of the type used to inject the Advanced Vela Nuclear Detection Satellites into orbit. Hercules, Inc. developed the motor in 1960, originally as a retro rocket for the Ranger family of lunar probes. It was also used as the fourth stage of the Athena sounding rocket and as the fourth stage of the Sparta missile. The BE-3-B produced 7,700 pounds of thrust for 7.9 seconds and used a double-base propellant. Hercules donated the motor to the Smithsonian in 1968.
Credit Line
Gift of Hercules, Inc. Explosives and Chemical Propulsion
Inventory Number
A19680262000
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
PROPULSION-Rocket Engines
Materials
Fiber motor and plastic nozzle
Dimensions
Overall: 88.9 x 45.72 x 28.58cm (2ft 11in. x 1ft 6in. x 11 1/4in.)
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_A19680262000