1 Images

This is a Saturn 1 Block 1 test launch vehicle, examples of which successfully launched during 1961-1963. The Saturn 1 was the basic test vehicle that led to the development of the Saturn V that carried men to the Moon for Project Apollo. The Block 1 second and third stages had dummy stages. The Block 2 differed in having a live upper stage and fins on its first stage.

To save money in its development, the Saturn 1 used existing hardware. The first was assembled from a lengthened Jupiter missile tank in the center with eight lengthened Redstone missile tanks around it. This Saturn 1 was transferred to the Smithsonian from the NAS/Marsahall Space Flight Center in 1980.

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

Type

CRAFT-Missiles & Rockets

Manufacturer

NASA Marshall Space Flight Center

Dimensions

Overall: 260 in. wide x 1984 in. long x 257 in. diameter (660.4 x 5039.37 x 652.78cm)
Other (second stage): 220 in. diameter (558.8cm)
Other (third stage): 120 in. diameter (304.8cm)
Other (loaded): 927000 lb. (420484.4kg)

Materials

Mainly, thin gauge aluminum body; engines, stainless steel and other metals; red rubber around three of the four H-1 engines; a gray rubber material around the fourth H-1 engine; engine bands, rusted and with graffiti; panels around engines, steel.

Inventory Number

A19800170000

Credit Line

Transferred from NASA-Marshall Space Flight Center

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonian’s Terms of Use.