NASA Space Shuttle Blueprint Fragment
This section of paper was a piece of a blueprint used to manufacture a critical component of the Space Shuttle Columbia.
These are not modern reproductions. They were produced in the 1970s for use in the Space Shuttle Orbiter development.
Each display includes a unique, individually-numbered ½ x ½" fragment, research card, and certificate of authenticity.
History:
In 1972, NASA hired LTV Aerospace to develop the Shuttle Entry Air Data System (SEADS) a method for measuring air pressure distribution around the spacecraft’s nose during reentry.
Due to the extreme heat of reentry, which could reach temperatures as high as 2,700° F (1,480° C), this assembly and the leading edges of the wings were protected by black tiles made of reinforced carbon-carbon material (RCC).
In 2003, during Columbia’s 28th launch, a piece of foam broke off the external fuel tank and struck the RCC tiles at about 500 mph (800 km/h), causing damage that ultimately lead to the tragic destruction of the spacecraft during reentry. Less than a year later, the Space Shuttle fleet was scheduled to be retired.
At The Space Store, we want your journey with us to be stellar! If your recent purchase isn’t quite the right fit for your mission, you have 30 days to initiate a return.
Here’s how it works:
- Returning Your Item: Please ensure that your product is in the same condition as when you received it and undamaged. Then, simply return it within 30 days of your purchase.
- Inspection & Refund: Once we receive your return, our team will inspect the item and process your refund. The refund will be credited to the original payment method used. For credit card payments, it may take 5 to 10 business days to appear on your statement.
Important notes for your Mission Log:
- If the product is damaged or if it’s been more than 30 days since your purchase, we won’t be able to offer a refund.
- Please note that special orders, such as the Replica Apollo Suit, cannot be canceled once ordered.
- Art Prints, Astronaut Suits, and Models are also non-cancelable once shipped.
We're here to help if you have any questions or need assistance with your return. Your satisfaction is our priority!