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 British Aircraft Corporation concept for a fully reusable space transportation system was studied long before the Shuttle research effort in 1969-1972. First presented in 1962, the design was called MUSTARD (Multi-Unit Space Transport and Recovery Device). It featured three piloted lifting-body vehicles - two boosters and an orbiter - that would be launched either stacked or clustered. During ascent the spent boosters would separate and be flown like a glider back to land, and the orbiter would continue into space and later make a gliding return. All propellants were carried inside each vehicle. The origin of this model is unknown; it may have come to the Museum from its designer, British Aircraft Corporation.

Display Status

This object is on display in James S. McDonnell Space Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.

James S. McDonnell Space Hangar
Object Details
Country of Origin United Kingdom Type MODELS-Crewed Spacecraft & Parts Manufacturer British Aircraft Corporation
Dimensions Overall: 18in. x 7 1/2in. x 14in. (45 x 19 x 36cm)
Materials Wood and plastic
Inventory Number A19900223000 Credit Line Donor Unknown Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.