The Apollo Command Module's primary source of electric power was from a set of three "fuel cells" housed in the Service Module. Each fuel cell combines hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity and water. The water was used for drinking by the astronaut crew. Each of the fuel cell power plants contain 31 separate cells connected in series. Each cell has hydrogen and an oxygen compartments and electrodes and in combination produce 27 to 31 volts. Normal power output for each power plant is 563 to 1420 watts, with a maximum of 2300 watts.
This particular fuel cell was installed in Service Module (SM) 102 during ground testing and operations conducted at the modules North American Aviation manufacturing site in California. It was transferred to the Smithsonian in September 1972. SM 102 was not flown.
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
SPACECRAFT-Crewed-Electrical Power
Manufacturer
United Aircraft Corporation, Pratt & Whitney Aircraft Division
Dimensions
3-D: 111.8 x 55.9cm, 111.1kg (44 x 22 in., 245lb.)
Materials
Pressure Jacket/Support Assembly - Titanium, Stainless Steel, Nickel
Hydrogen Electrode - Nickel
Oxygen Electrode - Nickel and Nickel Oxide
Inventory Number
A19730934000
Credit Line
Transferred from NASA, Johnson Space Center.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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