Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer

This is the Lunar Module Ascent Engine, one of the most important in the manned Apollo missions. It was used to lift up the ascent stage of the Lunar Excursion Module (LEM) from the surface of the Moon after the completion of a manned Lunar-landing mission. The LEM then docked with the Command Module (CM) orbiting the Moon. Once the astronauts were safely aboard the CM, the LEM was ejected and allowed to crash on the surface of the Moon while the CM escaped its lunar orbit and heading back to Earth. The LEM Ascent Engine engine produced 3,500 pounds of thrust and was developed and built by the Bell Aerosystems Company. This engine was transferred to the Smithsonian from the NASA Johnson Space Flight Center in 1974.

 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-Rocket Engines Manufacturer Bell Aerosystems Company
 Dimensions Overall: 4ft 4in. long x 2ft 8in. diameter (132.08 x 81.28cm)
 Materials Refrasil phenolic ablator, insulated with asbestos phenolic and glass fiber wrapped structural case; propellant lines, stainless steel; injector and valves, aluminum; Teflon seals in valves; valve housings, stainless steel
 Inventory Number A19740036000 Credit Line Transferred from NASA/Johnson Space Center Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.