Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer

This is a Reaction Control System (RCS) rocket engine for the yaw control of the Apollo space craft. It was flown on Apollo 4, launched in November 1967. This was the first flight of the Saturn V in which the Command Model (CM) made three orbits followed by a successful reeentry and splashdown. It was a crucial mission and verified the first "all up" test of all stages of the the Saturn V. The RCS system consisted of twelve engines in all operating in tandem. The system produced small pulses or bursts thrusts as needed over a 30 minute mission period. The pulses placed the CM in its proper position for re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere. This RCS was transferred to the Smithsonian in 1977 by the NASA Johnson Space Flight Center.

 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 PROPULSION-Rocket Engines Manufacturer Rocketdyne Division, Rockwell International
 Dimensions 3-D (Overall): 30.5 × 21.6 × 17.8cm (1 ft. × 8 1/2 in. × 7 in.)
 Materials Aluminum
Wood
Steel
Electrical Components
Plastic
Synthetic Fibers
Adhesive Tape
Ink
 Inventory Number A19770883000 Credit Line Transferred from NASA, Johnson Space Center. Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.