The multiple docking adapter (MDA) was part of Skylab, America's first space station. Three-man astronaut crews traveling to and from Skylab in Apollo spacecraft docked to the main docking port at one end of the cylindrical MDA. A second docking port on the side of the MDA was reserved for emergency use. The MDA also served as the control center for solar observations, Earth resources observations, and materials processing experiments.
Two complete Skylab space stations were manufactured and equipped for flight. One was launched into Earth orbit in 1973; the backup Skylab resides in the National Air and Space Museum. The backup MDA was exhibited in the Museum's Space Hall from 1976-1996.
NASA transferred the MDA to the Museum in 1978.
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
SPACECRAFT-Crewed
Manufacturer
Martin Marietta Aerospace
Dimensions
In Frame: 19ft 7in. x 35ft x 23ft 2in., 13800.8lb. (596.9 x 1066.8 x 706.12cm, 6260kg)
Materials
Metal
Inventory Number
A19761034000
Credit Line
Transferred from National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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