This is an unflown beryllium shingle of the type that covered the upper part of the Rendezvous and Recovery Section on the Gemini capsule. These shingles provided protection against the tremendous heat generated upon the capsule's reentry into the Earth's atmosphere. For added protection, their outer surface was painted with a blue-black ceramic paint and the inner surface had a very thin gold coating. Three firms supplied flat sheets of beryllium, which McDonnell finished in to shingles. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration transferred this artifact to NASM in 1970.
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
SPACECRAFT-Crewed-Parts & Structural Components
Manufacturer
McDonnell Aircraft
Dimensions
Overall: 8 in. x 31 in. x 1/4 in. (20.3 x 78.7 x 0.6cm)
Materials
Beryllium
Paint
Gold
Inventory Number
A19720433000
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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