strap to hold Apollo Lunar Module landing gear

Made:
1962-1972 in United States
SMG00245990

SMG00245990
Science Museum Group
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Musuem

One of two pieces of Apollo Lunar Module leg strap, made from titanium metal. Made by Space Ordnance Systems, United States of America, 1962-1972.

During the flight to the moon, this titanium strap would hold each of the four legs of the lunar module in a locked and retracted position, close to the spacecraft. Prior to landing on the surface of the moon, the titanium strap would be cut by guillotine blades driven by explosive charges, breaking the titanium strap into two pieces, allowing the legs of the lunar module to be deployed.

Details

Category:
Space Technology
Object Number:
Y1991.50.37.2
Materials:
titanium
Measurements:
overall: 90 mm x 25 mm x 2 mm, 60 g
type:
spacecraft component
credit:
Gift of Dr. K. Gilroy.