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

Black HRSI (high-temperature reusable surface insulation) tiles were an integral component of the Space Shuttle orbiter's thermal protection system. The system shielded the vehicle from the destructively searing heat of re-entry into the atmosphere and also provided passive thermal control in orbit. About 23,000 black tiles covered the entire underside of the vehicle, as well as portions of the vertical tail, wings, and forward and aft fuselage where temperatures reach 650-1,260 degrees C (1,200-2,300 degrees F). This tile was removed from the nose landing gear door after being damaged on the first flight of Columbia in 1981.

NASA transferred a number of such tiles to the Museum after the STS-1 mission.

 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: 8 1/2in. x 3 1/2in. x 9in. (21.59 x 8.9 x 22.86cm)
 Materials ceramic bonded silica fiber with glass coating, Nomex felt, room temperature vulcanized silicone (RTV) adhesive
 Inventory Number A19820005000 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.