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.