Commanded by Jim Lovell and piloted by Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin, Gemini XII was launched on November 11, 1966 for a 4-day, 59-orbit mission. Highlights included 3 extra-vehicular activities (EVAs) by Aldrin, 5 hours 30 minutes total, in which he evaluated improved EVA techniques to manage workload and overheating during EVA. Aldrin made extensive use of handholds and footholds to prevent unwanted movement during his tasks, and his techniques were an important milestone toward effective astronaut use of EVA. During one of the spacewalks, Aldrin attached a tether to the docked Agena 12. The tether allowed the crew to create an artificial gravity by separating the Gemini from the tethered Agena and firing thrusters to induce a slow spin.
NASA transferred the Gemini XII spacecraft to the Smithsonian in 1968.
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
Buzz Aldrin
James A. Lovell Jr.
Manufacturer
McDonnell Aircraft Corp.
Dimensions
Overall: 130 in. tall x 89 in. wide (330.2 x 226.1cm)
Materials
Structure: Titanium; cylindrical section: beryllium alloy; conical section: Rene 41 (nickel-steel alloy); heat shield: silicone elastomer
Skin: Beryllium, Nickel Alloy
Inventory Number
A19680265000
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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