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In 1954, several years before spaceflight began, space enthusiast Darrell C. Romick and two other Goodyear Aircraft workers designed this model of a reusable space transportation system and displayed it at the American Rocket Society's annual conference. Three piloted, winged rocket stages nested in a column would fire in sequence to launch the third stage at the top into orbit. All had retractable landing gear and could be flown as a glider during the return to landing. Although the concept was too massive to be practical at the time, it was an early vision for a space shuttle that could ferry people and equipment to and from an Earth-orbiting space station. The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company gave this model to the Museum in 1980.

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-Crewed Spacecraft & Parts

Manufacturer

Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, Airship Operations

Dimensions

Overall (with base): 2ft 3in. x 1ft 7in. x 1ft 4in. (68.58 x 48.26 x 40.64cm)

Materials

Wood, paint, brass, steel, adhesive, plastic, adhesive decals, plastic, felt

Inventory Number

A19800236000

Credit Line

Gift of Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
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