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The Hermes A-1 missile was an American version of the German Wasserfall missile of World War II. The development of the Hermes A-1 by the General Electric Company was begun in 1946 and was part of the larger Hermes program that took advantage of German wartime technology.

Beginning in 1947, components of the A-1 were successfully tested at the White Sands Proving Grounds in New Mexico and at GE's Malta Test Station in New York. Five A-1 rockets were successfully launched at White Sands between May 1950 and April 1951. The Hermes A-1 had a maximum range of 38 miles and altitude of 15 miles. The Hermes A-1 and other Hermes missiles never became operational, but did provide invaluable experience in the design, construction, and handling of large-scale missiles and rocket engines.

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority donated this Hermes A-1 to the Smithsonian in 1980.

 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 CRAFT-Missiles & Rockets Manufacturer General Electric Company
 Dimensions Overall: 300 in. tall x 34 5/8 in. diameter x 99 in. span, 3000 lb. (762 x 87.88 x 251.46cm, 1360.8kg)
 Materials Overall metal, mainly steel.
 Inventory Number A19800214000 Credit Line Gift of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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