The Fisher AG7 space pen was developed in 1966 and adopted by NASA for the astronauts' use in 1968. Ordinary ballpoint pens do not work in space because the ink does not flow in weightlessness. The Fisher pen's ink cartridge is pressurized and will operate in extreme environments on Earth and in space. Astronauts and cosmonauts regularly use these pens in space, and many Earth-bound customers buy them as well. Senator Jake Garn used this space pen during his flight on the STS 51-D Space Shuttle mission in 1985, and he gave it to the Museum with various other possessions after the mission.
Display Status
This object is on display in Human Spaceflight at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Miscellaneous
Astronaut
Edwin Jacob Garn
Manufacturer
Fisher Space Pen Co.
Dimensions
Overall: 5 in. long x 1/2 in. diameter (12.7 x 1.27cm)
Materials
metal, velcro, ink
Inventory Number
A19850627000
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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