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.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
United States of America
MODELS-Missiles & Rockets
Model Rocket Industries
Other (nose cone): 1 1/4 x 4in. (3.2 x 10.2cm)
Wood
Paper
Plastic
Steel
Balsa nose cone in paper and plastic retail package
A19930760000
Gift of G. Harry Stine
National Air and Space Museum
Usage conditions apply
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