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Gemini SC-2
Gemini SC-2 (Spacecraft No. 2) was the second NASA Project Gemini full-up reentry capsule built. This McDonnell Gemini capsule was the first space capsule to be reused, flying twice in suborbital flights. SC-2 flew on Gemini 2 and OPS 0855 flights. The capsule is currently on display at the Air Force Space and Missile Museum at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Spacecraft history The capsule is part of the collection of the National Air and Space Museum of the Smithsonian Institution. On 19 January 1965, the Gemini 2 suborbital test mission was launched, with the second prototype Gemini capsule. In March 1965, NASA approved the transfer of the Gemini 2 capsule to the USAF for modification into the first prototype of the Gemini B capsule. On 3 November 1965, the first Manned Orbiting Laboratory (MOL) and Gemini B suborbital test mission was launched. Thus, if one doesn't count the Mercury capsule used on flights Mercury-Redstone 1 and Mercury-Redstone 1A, the Mercury capsule used ... [...More Info...] [...Related Items...] OR: [Wikipedia] [Google] [Baidu] |
Reentry Capsule
A reentry capsule is the portion of a space capsule which returns to Earth following a spaceflight. The shape is determined partly by aerodynamics; a capsule is aerodynamically stable falling blunt end first, which allows only the blunt end to require a heat shield for atmospheric entry. A crewed capsule contains the spacecraft's instrument panel, limited storage space, and seats for crew members. Because a capsule shape has little aerodynamic lift, the final descent is via parachute, either coming to rest on land, at sea, or by active capture by an aircraft. In contrast, the development of spaceplane reentry vehicles attempts to provide a more flexible reentry profile. Structure Reentry capsules have typically been smaller than in diameter due to launch vehicle aerodynamic requirements. The capsule design is both volumetrically efficient and structurally strong, so it is typically possible to construct small capsules of performance comparable to lifting body or spaceplane de ... [...More Info...] [...Related Items...] OR: [Wikipedia] [Google] [Baidu] |
