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This simulator was used by astronauts in Project Mercury, the United States' first human space flight program. Astronauts spent many hours of training in this and other simulators to practice spacecraft operations and procedures. Switches, gauges, dials, and controls inside it were connected to electronic circuits, which recreated what would happen in a real spacecraft during an actual mission.

After the successful completion of Project Mercury, the trainer was given to the Smithsonian by the NASA Langley Research Center, where it had been used.

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

EQUIPMENT-Training Devices

Manufacturer

McDonnell Aircraft Corp.

Dimensions

Overall: 120 in. high x 70 in. wide x 71 in. deep (304.8 x 177.8 x 180.3cm)

Materials

steel

Inventory Number

A19700293000

Credit Line

Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.