This is the camera nose, one of the payloads carried about the Cricket rocket. V. M. Barnes, an employeed of Texaco Experiment Incorporated, patented the Cricket in 1964. One of a family of simple, light-weight rockets that used cold gas (non-combusting) propellants of carbon dioxide and acetone, the Cricket filled a niche role--to provide safe, low-cost, low-altitude applications in such fields as meteorological research.
A small payload capacity combined with poor performance capabilities during experimental testing prompted the company to cancel the program prior to commercialization for civilian and military applications.
The Richmond Research Laboratory transferred this to the Museum in 1969.
Display Status
This object is on display in Rockets & Missiles at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
CRAFT-Missiles & Rockets
Manufacturer
Texaco Experiment Inc.
Dimensions
Truncated ogive nose, truncated, length, 8.25 inches; diameter, outside, 2.75 inches
Materials
Ogive nose, with camera, aluminum, some steel; lense, glass
Inventory Number
A19700317002
Credit Line
Gift of Richmond Research Lab
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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