This is a liquid-fuel rocket engine developed by the Aerojet-General Corporation to power the upper stages of launch vehicles.
In 1958, the U.S. Air Force's Thor intermediate range ballistic missile (IRBM) was modified to carry three upper stages: the Able, Able-Star, and the Agena. Increased mission requirements led to a new upper stage called the Delta. The first launch of the Delta in 1960 failed, but subsequent launches proved highly successful, so much so that the name "Delta" was soon applied to the entire vehicle. This nomenclature is misleading, however, because subsequent versions of the Delta vehicle used other upper stages.
The Delta engine, as shown here, evolved into several different models. The original engine burned nitrogen tetroxide and a hydrazine-based fuel and produced a thrust of 8,067 pounds. It was regeneratively-cooled and gimballed. Later versions burned other propellants and had higher performances.
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
PROPULSION-Rocket Engines
Manufacturer
Aerojet General Corp.
Dimensions
3-D: 130.8 × 67.3cm (4 ft. 3 1/2 in. × 2 ft. 2 1/2 in.)
Materials
Non-Magnetic Metal
Copper Alloy
Ferrous Alloy
Plastic
Solder
Grease
Paint
Ink
Inventory Number
A19680553000
Credit Line
Gift of Aerojet General Corporation
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
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