Export restricted (ITAR), sale only to US Citizens and Organizations. Rocketdyne SE-6 thruster designed for the Gemini Reentry Control System (RCS), measuring approximately 10″ x 4″ x 3″, signed on the body in blue and black felt tip by the crew of Gemini 6A, "Wally Schirra, GT-6" and "Tom Stafford, GT-6. " The manufacturer's label affixed above: "Part Name: Thrust Cha[m]ber Assy OF, Mfd. by Rocketdyne for McDonnell, Part No. 208130-71, Mod. No. SE-6, Ser. 4060122, McDonnell Part No. SCD52-52700-239." Complete with its red Rocketdyne protective cover with desiccant packet inside. In fine condition.
Each Gemini capsule had 16 of these thrusters positioned in the nose for maneuvering and control of spacecraft attitude during reentry. They were famously utilized during Gemini 8 as the capsule began to spin dangerously out of control: staying calm under pressure, Neil Armstrong fired the RCS thrusters to regain stability. An uncommon and desirable piece of NASA rocket hardware, signed by the crew that successfully completed the first rendezvous with another spacecraft.
Ex. Bonhams, April 26, 2012.
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