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Shown here is an RCS (re-entry control system) thruster used on the manned Gemini spacecraft. 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-Rocket Engines Manufacturer Rocketdyne, Division of North American Aviation Co.
 Dimensions 10 1/8" x 4 5/8" x 3"
 Materials Stainless Steel
Steel
Phenolic Resin Composite
Aluminum
Plastic
Adhesive
Ink
Synthetic Fabric
 Inventory Number A19740243000 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
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.