A thin pad of heat resistant nomex felt fabric cushions each tile against the aluminum body of the Space Shuttle orbiter. Called a strain isolation pad, the fabric allows the vehicle to flex during the strain of liftoff, maneuvering, and reentry without cracking the hard tiles. The pads are glued directly to the orbiter on one side and the tiles on the other with a rust-colored silicone adhesive called RTV. This strain isolation pad, showing its glue, was removed from Columbia after its first flight in 1981. NASA gave a number of tiles and related materials to the Museum after that 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
SPACECRAFT-Crewed-Parts & Structural Components
Manufacturer
Lockheed Missiles and Space Co.
Dimensions
Overall: 7 × 7 in. (17.8 × 17.8cm)
Materials
Nomex felt with red silicone RTV
Inventory Number
A19820050000
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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