Smithsonian Institution
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Asset Name:
media:NASM-A19721346000cp03

File Usage:

Not determined
There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page at https://www.si.edu/Termsofuse


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Object details:

Object Name: Rocket Engine, Liquid Fuel, Apollo Lunar Module Ascent Engine
Smithsonian Record ID: edanmdm:nasm_A19721346000

	Object Name
	Rocket Engine, Liquid Fuel, Apollo Lunar Module Ascent Engine

	Metadata Usage
	Not determined

	Guid
	http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/nv91dcf4c1b-8625-4aa3-b7cf-aba7b7030b1e

	Data Source
	National Air and Space Museum

	Manufacturer
	Bell Aerosystems Company

	Materials
	Fiber-wound nozzle

	Dimensions
	Overall: 49 in. long x 32 1/2 in. diameter (124.46 x 82.55cm)

	Summary
	The Lunar Module Ascent Engine was used to lift up the ascent stage of the Lunar Module (LM) from the surface of the Moon and then dock with the Command Module (CM) orbiting the Moon. If necessary, the engine could also be used to slow down the LM's descent. Developed by Bell Aerosystems, the engine generated 3,500 pounds of thrust and used hypergolic (self-igniting) propellant, which eliminated the need for an ignition system and made the engine simpler, reliable, and lighter weight.

	Summary
	During its development by Bell Aerosystems, the engine faced combustion instability problems and involved several major injector redesigns. Rocketdyne designed replacement injectors which were incorporated and the engine became fully qualified. The Ascent Engine was subsequently used in all successful Apollo lunar landings.

	Summary
	The Rocketdyne Division of Rockwell International gave this LM Ascent Engine to the Smithsonian in 1972.

	Country of Origin
	United States of America

	Credit Line
	Transferred from the Rocketdyne Division of Rockwell International

	Inventory Number
	A19721346000

	Type
	PROPULSION-Rocket Engines

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