Gemini SE-6 Re-entry Control System Thruster Motor
Manufactured by Rocketdyne for NASA, this little rocket engine was one of 16 in the Gemini spacecraft that was used to maneuver in reentry.
This particular example did not go through the complete manufacturing process. In addition to the absence of propellant feed lines to the injector face, the engine body (mounting can) did not have the mounting holes on either side of the nozzle exit cone. It is likely during assembly, the SE-6 was rejected during the Q/A process which occurred at multiple times during the fabrication effort. Perhaps the assembler made an error or an uncorrectable bad weld was detected.
Manufacturer Name: SE-6.
Designer: Rocketdyne.
Developed in: 1963.
Propellants: N2O4/MMH
Thrust(vac): 11 kgf. Isp: 277 sec.
Lifespan: (S):96.
Specific impulse: (S):277.
Propellant/Oxidizer: MMH/NTO.
Thrust: 25lb.
Nozzle chamber material: Ablative (consumable) Phenolic.
Thanks to Scott Schneeweis for the technical description of this artifact.


