The Mark IV full pressure suit was developed for the US Navy by the B.F. Goodrich Company in the 1950s. The U.S. Air Force also authorized production of the Mark IV for squadrons stationed in colder areas. It was tested to altitudes of 139,000 ft. and demonstrated its ability to overcome the problems associated with safety during emergency ejection, immobility and manual pressurization. It was a very successful design, and was modified later to become the spacesuit worn by the Mercury astronauts.

Donated to the National Air and Space Museum by Emge Aviation-Marine 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

PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Pressure Suits

Manufacturer

B.F. Goodrich

Dimensions

Overall: 5 ft. 2 in. long x 2 ft. 5 in. wide x 9 in. deep (157.48 x 73.66 x 22.86cm)

Materials

Suit exterior: Nylon, brass, aluminium
Suit interior: Chloroprene on nylon fabric
other: HT-1 Nomex, steel, brass, phenolic resin, neoprene-coated nylonpaint, Rubber/Neoprene

Inventory Number

A19740740000

Credit Line

Transferred from the United States Navy

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

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