Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer

This is an Abort Control Handle and RGS-IGS Command Switch, which were located right below the left switch panel on the command pilot's side of the Gemini cabin. The Abort Control Handle was designed to separate the spacecraft from the launch vehicle in aborts above 25,000 feet. The handle was inoperative in the Normal position. When moved to the Shutdown position, a cutoff command was sent to the launch vehicle engine. When moved to the Abort position, the spacecraft separated from the launch vehicle and immediately began a retrograde sequence. The RGS-IGS Command Switch allowed the command pilot to manually change from primary guidance to secondary backup guidance during the boost phase. This artifact was never flown in space. Its manufacturer is unknown. NASA transferred the artifact to NASM in 1971.

 Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin United States of America Type SPACECRAFT-Crewed-Guidance & Control Dimensions 3-D (Case): 8.9 x 24.1 x 16.5cm (3 1/2 x 9 1/2 x 6 1/2 in.)
Other (Cord): 97.2cm (38 1/4 in.)
 Materials Aluminum
Paint
Velcro
Adhesive
Linen Micarta
Steel
Plastic
Paper
Ink
Cadmium
Synthetic Fabric
 Inventory Number A19711592000 Credit Line Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.