This spacesuit was constructed to provide a realistic display of astronaut Alan Shepard. Alan Shepard was launched in Freedom 7 on May 5, 1961, a flight lasting approximately 15 minutes. It was the first manned mission of the US Space program.
As the suit was constructed for display purposes only, it has an exterior, but no interior layer. However, like the mission and training suits, it was manufactured by the B.F. Goodrich Company which were developed from the U.S. Navy MK- IV full pressure suit, was selected by NASA in 1959 for use in the Project Mercury.
Transferred from NASA - Manned Spacecraft Center in 1962.
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
Astronaut
Alan B. Shepard Jr.
Manufacturer
B. F. Goodrich Co.
Dimensions
Approximately 62 inches long x 20 wide x 10 deep. (157.5 x 50.8 x 25.4 cm)
Materials
Exterior: Aluminized nylon, aluminium
Interior: No interior pressure bladder
Zipper: Brass, cotton
Neck-ring: Aluminium
Wrist locking rings and bearings: Aluminium
Inventory Number
A19620022000
Credit Line
Transferred from NASA - Manned Spacecraft Center
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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