This is the Aerobee 150 sounding rocket that was capable of reaching an altitude of about 170 miles (270 km) with a payload of 150 pounds (70 kg) of scientific instruments. The rocket consisted of a solid-fuel booster and a liquid-fuel sustainer stage.

The atmospheric, and sometimes astronomical experiments, were performed during the few minutes when the rocket reached its peak altitude. The data was automatically relayed back to a ground station by radio transmission. This rocket was donated to the Smithsonian in 1976 by the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center.

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

Date

ca. 1955-1970

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

CRAFT-Missiles & Rockets

Manufacturer

Aerojet General Corp.

Dimensions

Overall: 30 ft. long x 1 ft. 3 in. diameter (914.4 x 38.1cm)

Materials

Overall, aluminum with some steel

Alternate Name

Aerobee 150 Rocket

Inventory Number

A19760034000

Credit Line

Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
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