Thruster rocket engine installed on Lunar Landing Training Vehicle 952 (LLTV #3), and subsequently removed from service due to a misaligned injector retainer. The engine measures approximately 9″ x 7″ x 5″, and is stamped on the propellant inlet and chamber: "S/N 8." This serial number pertains to the motor, rather than the vehicle; the LLTV superseded the Lunar Landing Research Vehicle (LLRV) and the motors were reappropriated for the LLTV as they both used the same propulsion system. The Bell-manufactured 500-pound thrust hydrogen peroxide motors were installed on the LLTV in a vertically-mounted configuration as 'lift' rockets, and were used to simulate the one-sixth lunar gravity the Commander/Lunar Module Pilot would encounter during descent to the moon's surface. Accompanied by NASA-MSC parts control tags dated August 7, 1972, describing the engine: "Part Name: Lift Rocket, Part No. 7161-470001, A/C or GSE Name & No. NASA 952, Part S/N 8, Part Mfg. Bell, Condition Description: Cocked or Tilted Retainer." The "Operating Time" is blank, indicating that it was removed due to this defect prior to flight.
NASA's Lunar Landing Research Vehicle Monograph (SP-2004-4535) discusses the history and application of the important training vehicle. In total, ten moonwalkers utilized LLTV 952 to prepare for landing on the lunar surface. Bill Anders described the LLTV as 'a much unsung hero of the Apollo Program,' while Neil Armstrong emphasized its importance in an address before the Society of Experimental Test Pilots in 2007: 'The Lunar Landing Training Vehicle, or LLTV, proved to be an excellent simulator and was highly regarded by the Apollo Lunar Module crews as necessary for lunar landing preparation.' Sale of this item is limited to US Citizens and Organizations (only) to comply with US technology transfer restrictions.
