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NASA studied this North American Rockwell concept for a partially reusable space transportation system during the Shuttle research effort in 1969-1972. This two-stage system featured two piloted fly-back vehicles, a booster and an orbiter, both using liquid propellant. The orbiter was mounted on a large external tank above the booster. Powered by five F-1 engines, the booster would carry the orbiter to a set altitude, then detach to return to base. After separation, the orbiter's engines, fed from the tank, would ignite for final ascent into orbit. Moving all the orbiter's propellants into a disposable external tank made the orbiter smaller and lighter-weight. NASA transferred a variety of concept models to the Museum after settling on the final Space Shuttle design.

 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 States of America Type MODELS-Crewed Spacecraft & Parts Manufacturer North American Rockwell
 Dimensions Overall: 1ft 6in. x 3in. x 3in. (45.72 x 7.62 x 7.62cm)
 Materials Wood model; wood base with metallic-painted accents
 Inventory Number A19760783000 Credit Line Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.