1 Images

This is a high fidelity model of an F-1 rocket engine. Producing 1.5 million pounds of thrust, the F-1 was the powerplant for the first stage of the giant 363-foot long Saturn V launch vehicle that took astronauts to the Moon for Project Apollo. The first stage of the Saturn V was fitted with five F-1's for a total lift-off thrust of 7.5 million pounds. The fully-fueled Saturn V weighed 6.1 million pounds.

The F-1 used RP-1, a type of kerosene, and liquid oxygen as the propellants. The F-1's 2,500 pound turbopump pumped in the propellants at 42,500 gallons per minute. This object was donated to the Smithsonian in 1977 by Rocketdyne.

Display Status

This object is on display in Rockets & Missiles at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.

Rockets & Missiles

Object Details

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

MODELS-Propulsion

Manufacturer

Rocketdyne Div., North American Rockwell

Dimensions

Overall: 1 ft. 10 3/4 in. tall x 1 ft. 4 in. diameter, 40.2 lb. (57.79 x 40.64cm, 18.2kg)

Materials

Overall, wood; smaller plastic pieces; some aluminum piping; on circular walnut stand, with clear plexiglass label; bolts for attaching to stand, steel

Inventory Number

A19771036000

Credit Line

Gift of Rocketdyne Division, North American Rockwell

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonian’s Terms of Use.