The Apollo Command Module 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 generates 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 intended for use in the Apollo Service Module 115/115A, which was schedule for use during the Skylab Program. SM115 was never flown. The unused Fuel Cell was offered to the Smithsonian in 1977 and transferred on April 1978 and immediately loaned to the Oklahoma Center for Science and Arts in Oklahoma City for display.
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 × 55.9cm, 181.4kg (44 × 22 in., 400lb.)
Storage (Aluminum pallet and frame with fabric dust cover): 121.9 × 122.6 × 140.3cm, 150.6kg (48 × 48 1/4 × 55 1/4 in., 332lb.)
Materials
Aluminum Alloy
Plastic
Titanium Alloy
Stainless Steel
Nickel
Nickel Oxide
Copper Alloy
Ferrous Alloy
Synthetic Fabric
Paint
Ink
Inventory Number
A19780288000
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.