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

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 contain 31 separate cells connected in series. Each cell has hydrogen and an oxygen compartments and electrodes and in combination produces 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, made by United Aircraft Corporation, was intended for use in the Apollo Service Module 115/115A, which was schedule for use during the Skylab Program. SM115 was never flown and these unused fuel cells were offered to the Smithsonian in 1977.

 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: 109.9 x 55.9cm, 108.9kg (43 1/4 x 22 in., 240lb.)
 Materials Pressure Jacket/Support Assembly: Titanium, Stainless Steel, Nickel
Hydrogen Electrode: Nickel
Oxygen Electrode: Nickel and Nickel Oxide
Overall: 44 in. tall x 22 in. diameter (111.8 x 55.9cm)
 Inventory Number A19780292000 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.