This is a model of unknown scale of the Aerobee Hi, a sounding rocket for upper atmospheric research initially built by Aerojet General for the Navy and Air Force. A two-stage rocket, it could reach an altitude of about 168 miles and first successfully flew on April 21, 1955. During the International Geophysical Year (1957-1958), the rocket made 35 flights for the Navy and Air Force. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration and the military launched over 500 Aerobees from 1958-1985. Aerojet General made this model and donated it to NASM in 1965.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.