The Lunar Roving Vehicle (LRV) was a four-wheeled, battery powered "dune buggy" taken to the moon on Apollo missions 15, 16, and 17. The LRV was stowed on the descent stage of the Lunar Module and deployed upon arrival at the lunar surface. Actually a "wheeled spacecraft", it was operated with a spacecraft "stick" rather than a steering wheel, and could move forward and backwards. The design included a communications antenna and a television camera. Each wheel had a 1/4-horsepower electric motor. The LRV could reach speeds of up to 12 miles per hour and carry 1000 pounds (2 astronauts and their equipment.)
This particular unit was a non-operable, full-scale mock-up built for display purposes from mostly surplus parts. It was transferred to the Smithsonian in 1975.
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
SPACECRAFT-Crewed-Test Vehicles
Manufacturer
Boeing Company
Dimensions
Overall: 7ft 12in. x 4ft 12in. x 3ft 12in., 980lb. (243.8 x 152.4 x 121.9cm, 444.5kg)
Other: 232.2kg (548lb.) Weight reflects rover as displayed
Other: 7ft 12in. x 4ft 12in. x 3ft 12in. (243.8 x 152.4 x 121.9cm)
Materials
Aluminum chassis, zinc-coated piano wire wheels, fiberglass fenders, canvas, nylon, brass
Inventory Number
A19750842000
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.
