This is a sample thermal blanket like those covering most of the Space Shuttle fuselage, upper wings, and vertical tail. A standard blanket is a square, but this is one of the many irregular shapes needed to fit various parts of the vehicle's surface. Quilted blankets replaced most of the white tiles originally applied to the topside of the vehicle because they are lighter weight, more durable, and easier to make and install. NASA released a few of these Advanced Flexible Reusable Surface Insulation (AFRSI) blankets, no longer usable and marked scrap, to the Museum in 2006.
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-Miscellaneous
Manufacturer
Rockwell International Corporation
Dimensions
3-D: 76.2 × 53.3 × 1.5cm (30 × 21 × 9/16 in.)
Materials
woven silica fabric, woven glass fabric, silica thread
Inventory Number
A20100123000
Credit Line
Transfer from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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