This is a Gemini main parachute. It was stored with the drogue and pilot parachutes in the rendezvous and recovery section at the forward end of the capsule. During reentry, the drogue parachute deployed at an altitude of about 50,000 feet. At approximately 10,500 feet, the drogue parachute was released and the pilot parachute deployed. The entire rendezvous and recovery section and the pilot parachute was then quickly jettisoned, and during this this process the main parachute deployed. At about 6,500 ft. the spacecraft tilted over such that it was now suspended on two points, nose and the top of the heatshield,and descended horizontally, with the crew hatches up. The main parachute. remained open until the capsule impacted on the ocean.
This parachute was transferred by NASA and later found in the Smithsonian collections.
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
Irving Air Chute Co.
Dimensions
Approximate: 17.78 x 546.1 x 214.63cm (7in. x 17ft 11in. x 7ft 1/2in.) (as photographed)
Approximately 75 ft. diameter
Materials
Nylon, Synthetic Fabric, Ripstop Nylon, Steel, Aluminum, Cadmium Plating, Rope (natural)
Inventory Number
A20020433000
Credit Line
Found in collection. Donor unknown at this time. Found on NASM premises.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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