This is a balsa nose cone built by Model Rocket Industries for use in their flying rocket models. These models used a solid propellant motor to propel the model, and at the end of vertical flight the motor forced the separation of the nose cone from the body and the release of a parachute or streamer stored inside the body. The parachute or streamer brought the model back down safely for use again. At times in this process the nose cone was damaged or not retrieved, and thus replacements were needed. G. Harry Stine, an American pioneer in the field of flying rocket and missile models, donated it to the Museum.

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

MODELS-Missiles & Rockets

Manufacturer

Model Rocket Industries

Dimensions

Other (nose cone): 1 1/4 x 4in. (3.2 x 10.2cm)

Materials

Wood
Paper
Plastic
Steel
Balsa nose cone in paper and plastic retail package

Inventory Number

A19930760000

Credit Line

Gift of G. Harry Stine

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.