This is a nozzle used by U.S. rocket experimenter Robert H. Goddard to static test a liquid fuel rocket. It was to test the feasibility of "curtain cooling," a method of cooling the inside of the combustion chamber wall of rocket motors. The test was made at Worcester, Massachussetts, on 25 May 1929. Liquid oxygen and gasoline were the propellants.
The entire rocket weighed 22 pounds empty and with the propellants, 100 pounds. The rocket developed a thrust of about 300 pounds and used pressure feeding of the propellants into the combustion chamber. The motor fitted with this nozzle was also tested three other times during 1929 but no flights were made. The nozzle was donated in 1959 to the Smithsonian by Esther C. Goddard.
Display Status
This object is on display in Rockets & Missiles at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Date
1928-1929
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Components (Engine Parts)
Manufacturer
Dr. Robert H. Goddard
Dimensions
Approximate: 4 1/2 in. diameter x 18 1/2 in. long (11.43 x 46.99cm)
Materials
Carbon steel
Inventory Number
A19590071000
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. Robert H. Goddard
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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