This is the propellant injector for the M-1 rocket engine. The M-1 was a liquid oxygen (lox)/liquid hydrogen rocket engine of 1.2 to 1.5 million pounds thrust designed by the Aerojet-General Corporation. It was developed as an advanced powerplant for heavy-lift, deep space missions of the post-Saturn V era. The engine was conceived for use in the contemplated Nova super booster.
Plans to use the M-1 in the Nova vehicle included from five to fourteen of the engines. Aerojet received the contract for the M-1 in April 1962 and initially called for a 1.2 million pound engine. After delays, the first tests were made by March 1966 and the first full thrust tests made in July-August 1966. However, due to funding problem for post-Apollo projects, these were the last tests of the M-1 and its development ended.
Aerojet General donated this M-1 injector to the Smithsonian Institution in 1970.
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
Date
ca. 1962-1968
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Rocket Engines
Manufacturer
Aerojet Electrosystems Inc.
Dimensions
Overall: 17 in. long x 52 in. diameter, 3658 lb. (43.18 x 132.08cm, 1659.3kg)
Materials
Copper baffles; overall, stainless steel
Inventory Number
A19700245000
Credit Line
Gift of the Aerojet General Corporation
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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