This is the launch platform, also called the firing pedestal, for the U.S. Army's Corporal surface-to-surface missile. A truck pulled the missle on a trailer, and a self-propelled, hydraulically operated erector placed it on the pedestal. The four moveable arms secured the missile in place. An accompanying split level made sure the missile stood on level ground. The pyramid-like strucutre in the middle of the pedestal channeled the exhaust gases away from the launch site--a feature derived from the German V-2 rocket and also adapted for the Army's Redstone ballistic missile.

The U.S. Navy Disposal Division Supply Depot at Port Hueneme, California, transferred this platform to the Museum in 1966.

Display Status

This object is on display in Rockets & Missiles at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.

Rockets & Missiles

Object Details

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

CRAFT-Missiles & Rockets

Manufacturer

Firestone Tire and Rubber Company

Dimensions

Storage (Storage of Component): 162.6 x 106.7 x 55.9cm (64 x 42 x 22 in.)
Overall: 240 × 270.5 × 375.9 × 101.6cm (7 ft. 10 1/2 in. × 8 ft. 10 1/2 in. × 12 ft. 4 in. × 3 ft. 4 in.)

Materials

Overall, steel; tires rubber; split level, glass tube.
Component: Steel, Paint

Inventory Number

A19680010006

Credit Line

Transferred from U.S. Navy

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
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