This artifact was originally an integral part of the Gemini 11 spacecraft, which was launched on September 12, 1966, with astronauts Pete Conrad and Dick Gordon. The successful operation of this hatch was crucial to Gordon's two spacewalks (EVAs). Gemini hatches also were designed to open very rapidly in case the astronauts ejected from the spacecraft before or during their launch on the Titan II booster.
This hatch was removed from the spacecraft after flight and was transferred to the manufacturer, McDonnell Aircraft, to be used in the Gemini B program, part of the US Air Force's Manned Orbiting Laboratory project. After MOL was cancelled in 1969, this artifact was transferred to the Smithsonian. In 2000 it was refurbished and reinstalled in the spacecraft.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
United States of America
SPACECRAFT-Crewed-Parts & Structural Components
McDonnell Aircraft Corp.
Approximate: 11 in. deep x 49 in. long x 37 in. maximum width (27.94 x 124.46 x 93.98cm)
Titanium - Frame work
Rene 41 - Shingles
Stainless steel - hardware
A19680260001
Gift of the McDonnell Douglas Corporation
National Air and Space Museum
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