Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer

This is a model of an L-series rocket built and tested by American rocket pioneer Dr. Robert H. Goddard during 1936-1938 for flight tests of large liquid-fuel rockets with nitrogen pressurization. There were 30 tests altogether, including 17 flights. The work was conducted at Roswell, New Mexico.

Lengths of the L-15 rockets varied from about 11 feet to 13.5 feet and weighed up to 360 pounds fully fueled. The highest flight achieved was 8,000-9,000 feet, made on 22 April 1937, Moveable air vanes, now known as gimbal steering, helped stabilize the rocket. Donated to the Smithsonian by the model maker Mat Irvine in 1975.

 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 Kingdom Type MODELS-Missiles & Rockets Manufacturer Mat Irvine
 Dimensions Length, model, 18.5 inches; diameter, model, 2 inches; length, actual rocket, 17 feet 8 inches; diameter, actual rocket, 9 inches; weight, empty, actual rocket, 90.5 pounds
 Materials Sheet nickel combustion chamber in actual rocket; aluminum vanes and tubing; model, of plastic with plexiglass stand.
 Inventory Number A19751397000 Credit Line Gift of Mat Irvine Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.