Each spacecraft was equipped with removable window shades which were secured in place with hook and loop closure, and prevented the sun shining inside. Above the Earth's atmosphere, the sun's light is strong and periodically required blocking (for sleeping, etc.).
This shade was used in Command Module "Columbia's" left side window during the historical Apollo 11 first lunar-landing mission. NASA transferred it to the Smithsonian in 1970.
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
SPACECRAFT-Crewed-Parts & Structural Components
Overall: 1 ft. 1 in. × 1 ft. 2 in. × 7/16 in. (33 × 35.6 × 1.1cm)
Anodized Aluminum
Paint
Adhesive
Foam
A19791580000
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
National Air and Space Museum
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.