V. M. Barnes, an employeed of Texaco Experiment Incorporated, patented the Cricket rocket in 1964. One of a family of simple, light-weight rockets that used cold gas (non-combusting) propellants of carbon dioxide and acetone, the Cricket filled a niche role--to provide safe, low-cost, low-altitude applications in such fields as meteorological research.

A small payload capacity combined with poor performance capabilities during experimental testing prompted the company to cancel the program prior to commercialization for civilian and military applications.

The Richmond Research Laboratory transferred this to the Museum in 1969.

Display Status

This object is on display in Rockets & Missiles at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.

Rockets & Missiles

Object Details

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

CRAFT-Missiles & Rockets

Manufacturer

Texaco Experiment Inc.

Dimensions

Length: 22 inches; diameter (outside): 2.75 inches

Materials

Tube, aluminum, overall; instrument section cover, plastic; components in instrument section include other non-ferrous metal parts; plastic diodes; electrical wires with various colored plastic insulation

Inventory Number

A19700317001

Credit Line

Gift of Richmond Research Lab

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

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