Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer

This liquid-propellant rocket motor of Dr. Robert H. Goddard was flown on his rocket launch of 17 July 1929. The propellants were liquid oxygen and gasoline. It was the first liquid-propellant rocket to carry scientific instruments (an aneroid barometer and thermometer). The rocket flew to 28 m (90 feet) but crashed, the noise and resulting grass fire creating a public sensation. The publicity led to Goddard's rocket work coming to the attention of aviator Charles Lindbergh. Thanks to his intervention, Goddard would be supported in the 1930s by the Daniel Guggenheim Fund for the Promotion of Aeronautics.

The Daniel and Florence Guggenheim Fund gave this motor to the Smithsonian.

 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 1929 Country of Origin United States of America Type PROPULSION-Rocket Engines Manufacturer Dr. Robert H. Goddard
 Dimensions Overall: 12 1/2 in. wide x 28 1/2 in. long x 5 in. diameter (31.75 x 72.39 x 12.7cm)
 Materials Copper and aluminum
 Inventory Number A19850178000 Credit Line Gift of the Daniel & Florence Guggenheim Foundation Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.