This is a single ply of Sitka spruce wood used in the nine-ply sections that formed the nose fairing for the U.S. Navy's Poseidon C-3 submarine-launched ballistic missile. During the missile's launch, the nose fairing and nose cap at its tip protected the reentry vehicle and its nuclear warheads from air friction temperatures approaching 1000 degrees. Explosive devices blew the nose fairing off shortly after the missile entered space. Poseidon C-3s were deployed from 1971 into the early 1990s. Lockheed Missiles & Space Company made and donated this object to NASM.
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
CRAFT-Missile & Rocket Parts
Manufacturer
Lockheed Missiles and Space Co.
Dimensions
Overall: 2ft 9in. x 3in. x 9/16in. (83.82 x 7.62 x 1.43cm)
Materials
Plexiglas
Wood
Varnish
Foam
Adhesive
Ink
Inventory Number
A19731668005
Credit Line
Gift of Lockheed Missiles & Space Company
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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