This was the first in a series of prototype spacesuits that Hamilton Standard submitted to the U.S. Air Force for potential use in the Manned Orbiting Laboratory (MOL) program. The MOL program was a planned human tended reconnaissance space station. This suit design differs from the Apollo suits of the time in that it was designed for orbiting spacewalks only and not for use on the Moon. This suit lacks the coverlayer and shows much of the detail of the restrain system that prevented it from ballooning when under pressure.

NASA obtained this suit from the Department of Defense after the cancellation of the MOL program and transferred it to the Museum in 1979.

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

PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Pressure Suits

Manufacturer

Hamilton Standard

Dimensions

Approximate: 22.86 x 160.02 x 76.2cm (9in. x 5ft 3in. x 2ft 6in.)

Materials

Steel, nylon, rubber/neoprene, stainless steel, adhesive, plastic

Inventory Number

A19800039000

Credit Line

Transferrred from NASA Johnson Space Center

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
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