This is a model of the "self-moving and combustible egg" of the Syrian Al-Hassan er-Rammah and is believed to be the earliest known rocket propelled torpedo. Crude sketches and a description of it appear in Hassan's Arabic manuscript, The Book of Fighting on Horseback and with War Engines, completed in A.D. 1280.
It is not known if he ever built the device. The two pans connected together were filled with an incendiary mixture and the whole was propelled by two rockets. As the rockets were ignited, the device was aimed toward an enemy ship. When it struck, the enemy ship was to catch fire and be destroyed. The model was built especially for the National Air and Space Museum and donated to the Museum in 1976 by the George Marsden Design Company.
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
MODELS-Missiles & Rockets
Manufacturer
George Marsden Design
Dimensions
Overall: 21 x 45.1 x 13.7cm (8 1/4 x 17 3/4 x 5 3/8 in.)
Storage: 52.1 x 35.6 x 17.8cm (20 1/2 x 14 x 7 in.)
Materials
Copper Alloy
Aluminum
Plastic
Steel
Paint
Ink
Paper
Natural Fabric
Felt
Inventory Number
A19762056000
Credit Line
Gift of George Marsden Design
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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