This standard hex head nut driver hand tool was supplied with the Thermal Enclosure System-Crystal Observation System (TES-COS) used on the Space Shuttle. Astronauts used the tool to remove the circular hatch on the front of the experiment to access the apparatus inside and to load/unload experiment samples. Velcro was added to small items like this tool so they could be kept nearby and not float away.
The technical team who developed this equipment gave it to the Museum in 2012 when they began using new, more advanced equipment.
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-Tools
Dimensions
3-D: 18.4 × 3.2 × 3.2cm (7 1/4 × 1 1/4 × 1 1/4 in.)
Materials
Plastic
Steel
Coating
Velcro
Inventory Number
A20120272003
Credit Line
Gift of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Center for Biological Sciences and Engineering
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.