Gemini 11 was launched on September 12, 1966, on a 3-day mission. Astronauts Pete Conrad (commander) and Dick Gordon (pilot) rendezvoused and docked with their Agena target vehicle on their first orbit around the Earth, pioneering a technique that would later be used in the Apollo lunar landings. The astronauts used the Agena's engine to reach a record-setting altitude of 1370 km (850 mi.). Dick Gordon also performed a 38 minute space walk in which he fastened a tether to the docked Agena. Artificial gravity was simulated by separating the Gemini from the tethered Agena and firing thrusters to create a slow spin. But Gordon experienced overheating and exhaustion during his space walk which showed that the problems of extra-vehicular activity (EVA) had not yet been solved.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration transferred Gemini 11 to the Smithsonian in August 1967.
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
Astronaut
Charles Conrad, Jr.
Richard F. Gordon
Manufacturer
McDonnell Aircraft Corp.
Dimensions
Overall: 130 in. tall x 89 in. wide (330.2 x 226.1cm)
Other: 130 in. tall (330.2cm)
Support (at base): 89 in. diameter (226.1cm)
Materials
Structure: Titanium; cylindrical section: beryllium alloy; conical section: Rene 41 (nickel-steel alloy); heat shield: silicone elastomer
Skin: Rene-41
Sample of corrosion on hatch sent to Laboratory in March/2000 - copy of report in file
Inventory Number
A19680260000
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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