American Rocket Society (ARS) member John Shesta designed this lanyard-operated valve, also called the "quick turn-on valve," in September 1934 for use on the rocket ARS No. 3. It was designed so that when the remote operator pulled a fishing line, the valve came off, the fuel and oxidizer flowed into the rocket motor, initiating combustion. It is not known if the valve was actually used. ARS No. 3 was tested on 9 September 1934 but never flown because the liquid oxygen evaporated too quickly.
The American Rocket Society was formed in 1930 in New York City and was originally called the American Interplanetary Society. Between November 1932 and September 1934, the ARS attempted four launches with rudimentary rockets, two of which succeeded. It then switched to static tests of rocket motors, which were cheaper. ARS founder G. Edward Pendray gave this object to the Smithsonian in 1966.
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
PROPULSION-Components (Engine Parts)
Manufacturer
American Rocket Society
Dimensions
Overall (Steel Bar): 5.08 x 1.27 x 3.05cm (2in. x 1/2in. x 1 3/16in.)
Overall (Brass Coated Fitting): 5.4 x 1.91cm (2 1/8in. x 3/4in.)
Materials
Unknown non-ferrous metal
Steel
Brass
Inventory Number
A19680214000
Credit Line
Gift of G. Edward Pendray
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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