This is a 1:48 scale model of the Mercury-Atlas, the launch vehicle for the four manned Project Mercury orbital flights in 1962-1963. Flight testing of the Air Force's liquid-fuel Atlas intercontinental ballistic missile began in 1957, and the following year the newly-created National Aeronautics and Space Administration selected the Atlas D version as one of the launch vehicles for the first manned spaceflight program, Project Mercury. After undergoing several modifications, the rocket was designated the Mercury-Atlas. This model was built by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, which transferred it to NASM in 1971.
Display Status
This object is on display in Destination Moon at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
MODELS-Missiles & Rockets
Manufacturer
NASA Marshall Space Flight Center
Dimensions
3-D: 10.8 × 8.9 × 61cm (4 1/4 in. × 3 1/2 in. × 2 ft.)
Materials
Plastic
Aluminum
Paint
Adhesive
Ink
Inventory Number
A19721001000
Credit Line
Gift of NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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