This is the fuel tank of one of the liquid propellant rockets of American rocket pioneer Dr. Robert H. Goddard (1882-1945) and dates to the 1930s when he was experimenting near Roswell, New Mexico. The exact rocket and dates are unknown but the rocket used Goddard's standard propellants of liquid oxygen and gasoline. The tank, made of aluminum, shows a burst hole which was probably caused by the failure of one of his tests.
The tank was donated to the NASM in 1950 by the Daniel and Florence Guggenheim Foundation after its display in a Guggenheim exhibit in New York City in 1948, the earliest known exhibit of Goddard rockets.
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-Components (Engine Parts)
Manufacturer
Dr. Robert H. Goddard
Dimensions
Overall: 20 1/2 in. long x 6 in. diameter (52.07 x 15.24cm)
Materials
Aluminum
Inventory Number
A19850183000
Credit Line
Gift of the Daniel Guggenheim Foundation
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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