Mercury Spacecraft

Image: NASA (Public Domain)

Mercury Spacecraft

Designation: Mercury-Atlas

NASA Space Race spacecraft 1958-1963

Why it matters

Mercury was America's first step into space. Alan Shepard became the first American in space aboard Freedom 7. John Glenn orbited the Earth in Friendship 7 and became a national hero. Each capsule was hand-built, each mission was a first. The Mercury Seven astronauts became the template for American heroism. Everything that came after — Gemini, Apollo, the Moon — started here.

Specifications

Max Speed 17,500 mph (orbital velocity)
Range N/A (orbital)
Service Ceiling 175 miles (orbital altitude)
Engine 3x posigrade rockets, retrorocket package
Power/Thrust 1,000 lbf total (retro)
Wingspan N/A
Length 9 ft 6 in (capsule only)
Crew 1
Production 20 spacecraft built
First Flight 1961-05-05 (suborbital), 1962-02-20 (orbital)
Service Dates 1958-1963

Notable Features

  • First American crewed spacecraft
  • Hand-built by McDonnell Aircraft
  • Ablative heat shield
  • Manual control capability

Patina notes

Mercury capsules that flew show their journey in ways spacecraft rarely do. The ablative heat shield material charred and ablated during reentry — that's how it protected the astronaut. The beryllium shingles show discoloration patterns from atmospheric heating. The peroxide thrusters left residue. Each capsule is a one-of-a-kind artifact frozen in its post-flight state.

Preservation reality

All flown Mercury capsules are preserved in museums. Friendship 7 is at the Smithsonian. Freedom 7 is at the Kennedy Space Center. These are among the most valuable artifacts in American history. Replica capsules exist for display, but the originals are irreplaceable national treasures that will never fly again.

Where to see one

  • • National Air and Space Museum (Friendship 7)
  • • Kennedy Space Center (Freedom 7)
  • • California Science Center (Faith 7)
  • • Museum of Science and Industry (Aurora 7)

Preservation organizations

  • • NASA
  • • Smithsonian Institution

Sources