This is an unflown parachute cover from the Corona photoreconnaissance satellite program. The film in the cameras was reeled onto the spools in film return capsules, the capsules separated from the rest of the satellite and reentered the atmosphere, and after the heat shield was jettisoned two parachutes deployed that enabled an Air Force plane to gather in the capsule. Covers such as this one protected the packed deceleration and main parachutes from the heat during reentry.
From August 1960 to May 1972, there were over 120 successful Corona missions that provided invaluable intelligence on the Soviet Union and other nations.
This cover was made by General Electric, and donated to NASM by the National Reconnaissance Office in 1995.
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-Uncrewed-Instruments & Payloads
Manufacturer
General Electric Company
Dimensions
3-D: 53.3 × 53.3 × 14cm (1 ft. 9 in. × 1 ft. 9 in. × 5 1/2 in.)
Materials
HAZMAT: Cadmium
Fiberglass
Non-Magnetic White Metals
Ferrous Alloy
Paint or Coating
Ink
Inventory Number
A19950118001
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Reconnaissance Office
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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