Paraglider Research Vehicle (Paresev) 1-A, Gemini, 1960s. Creator: NASA

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Paraglider Research Vehicle (Paresev) 1-A, Gemini, 1960s. Creator: NASA

From 1962 to 1964, NASA used the Paresev to develop the technology for landing the two-man Gemini capsule on land, instead of parachuting into the ocean, as had been done in Project Mercury. The astronauts would release an inflatable paraglider wing based on the work of Francis Rogallo, and maneuver to a runway or dry lake bed. Astronauts " Gus" Grissom and Neil Armstrong were among those who piloted the Paresev during several hundred flights at Edwards Air Force Base in California. The Paresev was towed by a ground vehicle or a small aircraft and released at an altitude between 5, 000 and 12, 000 feet. It was tested with three different wings; the 1-A is the first configuration. Before the paraglider concept could be fully developed for the Gemini program, NASA decided to stick with the proven technology of parachutes and water landing. NASA transferred the Paresev to the Smithsonian in 1968

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Media ID 23877525

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EDITORS COMMENTS
The Paraglider Research Vehicle (Paresev) 1-A, Gemini, is captured in this photo print. Developed by NASA from 1962 to 1964, the Paresev aimed to revolutionize space travel by enabling landings on solid ground instead of the traditional ocean splashdowns seen in Project Mercury. Inspired by Francis Rogallo's work, the astronauts would release an inflatable paraglider wing and skillfully maneuver towards a runway or dry lake bed. Renowned astronauts "Gus". Grissom and Neil Armstrong were among those who piloted the Paresev during numerous flights at Edwards Air Force Base in California. The vehicle was towed either by a ground vehicle or a small aircraft before being released at altitudes ranging between 5,000 and 12,000 feet. Throughout its testing phase, three different wings were utilized with the 1-A configuration representing its initial design. Despite promising advancements made through these trials, NASA ultimately decided to stick with proven parachute technology for their Gemini program's water landings. Consequently, they transferred the Paresev to the Smithsonian Institution in 1968. This remarkable image showcases not only a significant chapter in American aerospace history but also highlights NASA's relentless pursuit of innovation and technological advancement during the dynamic era of space exploration. As we admire this artifact within the National Air and Space Museum's collection today, it serves as a testament to humanity's unwavering determination to conquer new frontiers beyond our planet Earth.

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