This Hand-Held Maneuvering Unit, which operates on compressed oxygen, is similar to the one used by Edward White III on his historic spacewalk in June 1965. It is constructed of aluminium and stainless steel, with three small rocket nozzles, two of which are located on extended "arms," permitting the astronaut to move his body gently to the right, left, or forward. A rocker switch on the handle operates the nozzles. The two oxygen tanks maintained under 3400 psi of pressure for fuel.
The unit was manufactured by Airesearch Manufacturing Company, and NASA transferred it to the Smithsonian in 1973.
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
EQUIPMENT-EVA Devices
Manufacturer
Airesearch Mfg. Co.
Dimensions
3-D: 27.3 x 5.1 x 41.3cm (10 3/4 x 2 x 16 1/4 in.)
Materials
Handle: Anodized aluminium, Non-anodized Aluminium
Tanks: Steel, Plastic, Adhesive
Nozzles and regulator: aluminium and steel
Inventory Number
A19770611000
Credit Line
Transferred from NASA
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.