Test pilot Mike Melvill wore this helmet on June 21, 2004, during the first privately funded spaceflight of SpaceShipOne. After its launch from a carrier aircraft called White Knight, Melvill piloted SpaceShipOne to an altitude of 100 km (62 miles) before returning to land in Mojave, California. This test flight paved the way for two subsequent flights that earned the SpaceShipOne team the $10 million Ansari X Prize for the first privately funded spaceflights. Melvill also wore this helmet on September 29, 2004, during one of those award-winning flights. Melvill partnered with Burt Rutan in a long career of designing and flight testing experimental aircraft. He gave his flight suit, helmet, and other accessories to the Museum in 2005 when SpaceShipOne entered the national collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft.
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
Manufacturer
Gentex Corporation
Pilot
Mike Melvill
Dimensions
3-D: 25.4 x 25.4 x 25.4cm (10 x 10 x 10 in.)
Materials
Fiberglas, Steel, Aluminum, Leather, Nylon, Synthetic fabric, Paint, Velcro, Rubber/Neoprene, Polycarbonate, Plastic, Brass
Inventory Number
A20060585000
Credit Line
Gift of Mike and Sally Melvill
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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