The Apollo Command Module heat shield was manufactured following several steps: beginning with the substrate material, several coatings, a honeycomb supporting structure, a cell-by-cell filling with resin, and subsequent coatings and curing.
The manufacturer provided this finished heat shield sample to the Smithsonian, along with a model showing the various steps, in 1975.
Display Status
This object is on display in Destination Moon at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
SPACECRAFT-Crewed-Parts & Structural Components
Manufacturer
Avco Corportation
Dimensions
Overall: 1 ft. × 1 ft. × 1.9 in., 5 1/4lb. (30.5cm × 30.5cm × 4.8cm, 2.4kg)
Materials
Stainless steel, Fiberglas, phenolic resin (Avcoat 5026-39), various coatings
Fiberglass
Inventory Number
A19751421000
Credit Line
Gift of AVCO Corporation, Systems Division
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.