This helmet was worn by Scott Carpenter during the second orbital flight of a U.S. astronaut. The flight took place on May 24, 1962 and lasted for 4 hours and 56 minutes, during which time he traveled 76,020 miles and orbited the earth three times.
The helmet was constructed of fiberglass and epoxy resin and was molded to fit directly into the neck bearing disconnect. A Plexiglas visor, capable of being raised for access, was attached with pivots, and when lowered into pressure sealing position, it locked in place with a latch. Communication devices with suede-covered ear pads were incorporated into the helmet.
Transferred to the National Air and Space Museum from NASA in 1971
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.