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 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 is a temporary cover for the Gemini XII spacecraft. 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 this capsule cover to the Smithsonian in 1968, together with the Gemini XII spacecraft.

 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 EQUIPMENT-Miscellaneous Astronaut Buzz Aldrin
James A. Lovell Jr.
 Manufacturer McDonnell Aircraft Corp.
 Dimensions Storage (Rehoused on an aluminum pallet): 152.4 × 152.4 × 96.5cm, 136.1kg (60 × 60 × 38 in., 300lb.)
 Materials Non-Magnetic White Metal Alloy, Coated Fabric, Synthetic Fabric
 Inventory Number A19680265069 Credit Line Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.