These clips could be used to hold in place a splash curtain, that extended over the hatch opening after ocean landing and the opening of the hatch. They were carried in the cockpit of Gemini XII. Commanded by Jim Lovell and piloted by Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin, Gemini XII was launched on November 11, 1966, for a 4-day, 59-orbit mission. Highlights included 3 extra-vehicular activities (EVAs) by Aldrin, 5 hours 30 minutes total. Aldrin made extensive use of handholds and footholds to prevent unwanted movement during his tasks, and his techniques were an important milestone toward effective astronaut use of EVA.
NASA transferred the Gemini XII spacecraft to the Smithsonian in 1968.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.