Astronaut Joe Engle wore this helmet and oxygen mask aboard Enterprise during the Space Shuttle Approach and Landing Tests in 1977. Paired with pilot Richard Truly, Engle commanded three of the eight piloted test flights, including two of the five free-flight descents to landing. He later commanded two orbital flights aboard Columbia (STS-2, 1981) and Discovery (STS 51-I, 1985). Engle donated his flight suit, jacket, helmet, gloves, and boots to the Museum when Enterprise went on display in 2004.
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
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Helmets & Headwear
Astronaut
Joe H. Engle
Dimensions
3-D (1797g): 25.4 × 20.3 × 26.7cm, 1.8kg (10 × 8 × 10 1/2 in., 3.9lb.)
3-D (mask): 12.7 × 10.2 × 11.4cm (5 × 4 × 4 1/2 in.)
3-D (hose): 48.9 × 3.8 × 2.9cm (1 ft. 7 1/4 in. × 1 1/2 in. × 1 1/8 in.)
Materials
Fiberglass, leather, plexiglass, metal, plastic, fabric, rubber
Inventory Number
A20040269000
Credit Line
Gift of Maj. Gen. Joe H. Engle
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.