Water Dispenser, Gemini, Training

Object Details

Manufacturer
Whirlpool Corporation
Summary
This water dispenser was used for training purposes prior to the Gemini missions of the 1960s. Stainless steel dispensers such as this were an important part of the equipment carried aboard the spacecraft. It was designed to dispense measured amounts of hot or cold water into the food containers.
Feeding the astronauts a nutritious diet was of paramount importance, but problems associated with storage and dispensing had to be overcome. Due to space and weight considerations, food had to be lightweight and have the ability to be compressed when possible, so many items were dehydrated for later rehydration and consumption. For the early missions, food also had to be stored without refrigeration.
NASA transferred this object to the National Air and Space Museum in 1967.
Country of Origin
United States of America
See more items in
National Air and Space Museum Collection
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Inventory Number
A19680274000
Type
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Food & Food Accessories
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Materials
Aluminium, stainless steel, plastic
Dimensions
3-D: 15.2 x 5.1 x 19.1cm (6 x 2 x 7 1/2 in.)
GUID
http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/nv970e774a4-e167-40b3-8414-4ad80dd6e563
Record ID
nasm_A19680274000
Irregularly shaped water dispenser with nozzle, quantity meter and operating switch.