This is a left hand hatch from a Gemini spacecraft. It was used in instrumentation tests and did not fly in space. Made of titanium, it is covered with shingles of Rene 41, which protected the capsule from the tremendous heat generated during reentry.

McDonnell Aircraft made the hatch and donated it to the Museum in 1970.

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-Parts & Structural Components

Manufacturer

McDonnell Aircraft

Dimensions

Storage (Rehoused on aluminum pallet with one additional object): 152.4 × 213.4 × 63.5cm, 164.2kg (60 × 84 × 25 in., 362lb.)
Overall: 127 × 104.1 × 43.2cm (50 × 41 × 17 in.)

Materials

HAZMAT: Asbestos, Cadmium
nconel, Rubber (Silicone), Paper, Adhesive, Plastic, Epoxy, Steel, Mylar (Polyester), Aluminum, Titanium,
Paint, Magnesium, Cadmium Plating, Plastic, Glass

Inventory Number

A19731040000

Credit Line

Gift of McDonnell Aircraft

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.