This model depicts an astronaut with a propulsion backpack, the Manned Maneuvering Unit (MMU). MMUs were used during a three Space Shuttle flights in 1984 (STS 41-B, STS 41-C, STS 51-A). They gave astronauts the ability to maneuver freely outside the orbiter without being tethered to the spacecraft. The MMU allowed astronauts to retrieve satellites and bring them back to the shuttle where they could be repaired or where the remote manipulator arm could place them into the shuttle cargo bay for return to earth. This model was a gift from the MMU developer, Martin Marietta Aerospace.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
United States of America
MODELS-Miscellaneous
Martin Marietta Aerospace
3-D (Approximate): 38.1 × 21 × 26.7cm (15 in. × 8 1/4 in. × 10 1/2 in.)
Storage: 38.1 × 58.4 × 38.1cm (15 × 23 × 15 in.)
Resin
Plastic
Non-Magnetic White Metal Alloy
Steel
Paint
Paper
Adhesive
Ink
Glass
A19830004000
Gift of Martin Marietta Aerospace
National Air and Space Museum
Usage conditions apply
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