Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer

This Space Shuttle thermal insulation tile was removed after being damaged on the first flight of Columbia in 1981. Black HRSI (High-Temperature Reusable Surface Insulation) tiles shielded the vehicle from the heat of re-entry into the atmosphere. About 23,000 HRSI tiles were used primarily on the upper forward fuselage and the underside of the Shuttle. NASA transferred a number of such tiles to the Museum after the STS-1 mission.

NASA transferred this tile to the Museum in 1981.

 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 SPACECRAFT-Crewed-Parts & Structural Components Manufacturer Lockheed Missiles and Space Co.
 Dimensions Overall: 6 in. tall x 6 in. wide x 3 1/2 in. deep (15.2 x 15.2 x 8.9cm)
 Materials ceramic bonded silica fiber with glass coating
 Inventory Number A19820010000 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.