This is a 1:60 scale model of the Snark, the first U.S. intercontinental guided missile. It had a nuclear warhead, an air-breathing engine, two solid-fuel boosters to assist in take-off, a cruising speed of close to Mach 1, and a range of over 6,300 miles. The missile was deployed with the U.S. Air Force from 1957-1961, at which time the increasing numbers of the larger and more accurate Atlas and Titan intercontinental ballistic missiles rendered the Snark obsolete. This model was built by Northrop and apparently given to Dr. Zinn, fiscal officer of the House of Representatives. Dr. Zinn in turn donated it to NASM 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

MODELS-Missiles & Rockets

Manufacturer

Northrop Corp.

Dimensions

Model: 39.1 x 22.2 x 8.3cm (15 3/8 x 8 3/4 x 3 1/4 in.)
Storage: 59.1 x 45.4 x 12.7cm (23 1/4 x 17 7/8 x 5 in.)

Materials

Wood
Paint
Copper Alloy
Putty

Inventory Number

A19660651000

Credit Line

Gift of Dr. Zinn

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.