William P. "Bill" Suitor, wore this suit while serving as a rocket belt or jet pack test pilot for Bell Aerosystems from March 1964 to June 1970. He flew Rocket Belt No. 2, which is currently in the museum's permanent collection, on several signature occasions, such as the opening ceremony of the 1984 Summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles and during a short scene in the classic 1965 James Bond film, "Thunderball."
Mr. Suitor donated this suit to the Museum with the rocket belt in 2005.
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
ca. 1964-1970
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Flight Clothing
Dimensions
Clothing: 147.3 x 148.6cm (58 x 58 1/2 in.)
Materials
Overall, Dacron; aluminum cuff clasps; aluminum zipper in front, steel zipper puller
Inventory Number
A20060072000
Credit Line
Gift of William P. "Bill" Suitor
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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