This is one of the Rene 41 shingles that covered Mercury capsule #14. The capsule was launched on top of Little Joe rockets in two test flights at Wallops Island in early 1961. Rene 41 was an alloy made of nickel, chromium, cobalt, molybdenum, titanium, and several other metals. The shingles were designed to protect the capsule from the tremendous heat generated during its reentry in to the Earth's atmosphere. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration transferred the shingle to NASM.
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 (shingle): 27.31 x 23.5 x 1.27cm (10 3/4in. x 9 1/4in. x 1/2in.)
Materials
Rene 41, plated steel
Inventory Number
A19711521001
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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