First test-launched in August, 1953, the Redstone Medium-Range Ballistic Missile evolved from a five-year Army research and development program. Named for Redstone Arsenal—where it was developed—this vehicle played a crucial role in the U. S.'s defense capability. The Redstone was a mobile missile that could be launched on the battlefield by combat-ready soldiers. In June, 1958, the Redstone was put into service with U. S. Army units stationed in Germany. Because of its proven reliability, the Redstone rocket fulfilled a number of additional roles.
In January, 1958, a modified Redstone (renamed Juno I) launched the first U. S. satellite (Explorer I) into Earth orbit. By 1960, NASA had modified the vehicle for launching American's first manned spacecraft (Project Mercury).
This Redstone missile was used to train soldier on its operation during the Redstone Mechanical Material Maintenance Course at Redstone Arsenal.
Length: 69.3ft (21.1m)
Diameter: 5.8ft (1.8m)
Finspan: 12ft (3.7m)
Weight: 61, 300lbs (27,805kg)
Thrust: 78,000lbs (346,961N)
Velocity: 3,800mph (6,116km/hr)
Range: 200mi (322km)
Propellants: Liquid oxygen and ethyl alcohol
Contractors:
· Chrysler Corporation for the U. S. Ordnance Guided Missile Center
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