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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