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 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 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 from the left orbital maneuvering system (OMS) pod after being damaged on the first flight of Columbia in 1981. White LRSI (low-temperature reusable surface insulation) tiles shielded selected areas on the sides and upper surfaces of the vehicle from the heat of re-entry into the atmosphere.

Originally about 7,000 LRSI tiles shielded portions of the Shuttle's vertical tail, OMS pods, upper wings, and the forward, mid and aft fuselage. However, most of the white ceramic tiles were replaced with quilted insulation blankets that were lighter weight, more durable, and easier to produce and install than the tiles. 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 6 3/4" x 5 1/6" x 11/16"
 Materials ceramic silica fiber
alumina oxide
synthetic fabric
adhesive
paint
 Inventory Number A19820024000 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.