Shown here is a thrust chamber from a two-chamber XLR-87 engine that powered the first stage of the U.S Air Force's Titan I intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). Each gimabled chamber generated 150,300 pounds of thrust, consuming RP-1 fuel (a highly refined form of kerosene) and liquid oxygen.

The Aerojet General Corporation began developing the engine in 1954, in response to national concern about improved Soviet launch capability. It served as the backup system to the Atlas, the U.S.'s first operational ICBM, which entered service in 1960. Aerojet delivered the first XLR-87 in 1957, and the Air Force completed the first successful Titan I launch on February 6, 1959. The Titan I entered the Air Force inventory in 1963, but quickly became obsolete with the introduction of the more advanced Titan II, which featured storable, hypergolic (storable )propellants. The Air Force deactivated its Titan I missiles in 1966.

Transferred from NASA.

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

Aerojet General Corp.

Dimensions

Length, 87 inches; diameter, 46 inches

Materials

Ferrous Alloy
Stainless steel
Inconel (nickel, chromium, iron alloy)
Possible Paint
Possible Asbestos

Inventory Number

A19720284000

Credit Line

Transferred from NASA George C. Marshall Space Flight Center.

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

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