This Hand-Held Maneuvering Unit was used by Edward White III on his historic "walk in space" on June 3, 1965.

It is constructed of aluminium and stainless steel, with three small rocket nozzles, two of which are located on extenders, permitting the astronaut to move his body to the right or left, or gently forward. There is a rocker switch incorporated into the handle for the operation of the nozzles, and two oxygen tanks under 3400 psi of pressure for fuel.

The unit was manufactured by Airesearch Manufacturing Company and transferred to the National Air and Space Museum in 1967.

Display Status

This object is on display in Destination Moon at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.

Destination Moon

Object Details

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

EQUIPMENT-EVA Devices

Manufacturer

Airesearch Mfg. Co.

Astronaut

Edward H. White, II

Dimensions

Overall: 2ft 8in. x 1ft 2in. x 9in. x 2in., 6.8lb. (81.28 x 35.56 x 22.9 x 5.1cm, 3.1kg)
Folded: 17" x 10" x 3"

Materials

Anodized Aluminum, Aluminum, Steel, Fiberglass, Copper, Velcro, Nylon, Adhesive

Inventory Number

A19670211000

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.