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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.

Destination Moon

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 Smithsonian’s Terms of Use.