This parachute is one of the three main parachutes deployed to safely "land" the Apollo 16 command module after its successful April 1972 lunar mission. The parachute system selected for the Apollo command module consisted of two ribbon drogue parachutes, which accomplish initial deceleration and stabilization. After disconnect the two drogue parachutes are followed by three pilot parachute, which in turn extract three ringsail main parachutes (only two of which would provide the rate of descent necessary for a safe water landing).
NASA transferred this parachute to the Museum in 1974.
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
EQUIPMENT-Parachutes
Manufacturer
Northrop Ventura
Dimensions
Approximate: 903 3/16 in. diameter (2294.13cm)
Materials
nylon
Inventory Number
A19740080000
Credit Line
Transferred from the NASA - Johnson Space Center
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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