Shown here is a set of propellant inlet lines for an RCS (re-entry control system) thruster used on the manned Gemini spacecraft. The museum received the injector as surplus from the Gemini II mission. This engine, which helped control the spacecraft's attitude (roll, pitch, and yaw) produced a thrust of 25 pounds and used hypergolic (self-igniting) propellants (monomethyl hydrazine and nitrogen tetroxide). The entire RCS system consisted of two independent groupings of eight thrusters each. The system met performance requirements on all manned Gemini flights (Gemini III--Gemini XII) from March 1965 through November 1966.
The McDonnell Aircraft Corporation, the primary contractor for the Gemini spacecraft, awarded a subcontract for the RCS system to the North American Aviation's Rocketdyne Division on February 24, 1962.
Donated by the McDonnell Douglas Corporation.
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
Date
ca. 1962-1966
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Accessories (to an Engine)
Manufacturer
Rocketdyne, Division of North American Aviation Co.
Dimensions
Overall: 10.16 x 10.8 x 8.26cm (4in. x 4 1/4in. x 3 1/4in.)
Materials
Stainless Steel
Steel
Anodized Aluminum
Aluminum
Rubber (Silicone)
Plastic
Paper
Adhesive
Ink
Epoxy
Inventory Number
A19740246000
Credit Line
Transferred to the National Air and Space Museum from the McDonnell Douglas Corporation
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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