Oldest static firing facility, Located at the Marshall Space Flight Center, Was used to test the Jupiter-C and Mercury/Redstone vehicles. Was built in 1953 and was an important factor for the first U.S. satellite in space and the first U.S. manned spaceflight.
closed to the public
closed to the public
The Redstone Test Stand is a historic testing facility located at the U.S. Army’s Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama. This facility played a significant role in the development of rocket technology during the Cold War era. The stand was built in 1953 and served as a test site for the Redstone missile, which was developed by Wernher von Braun’s team of German scientists who were brought to the United States after World War II. The Redstone missile was a key component of the United States’ early space program, and it played a critical role in the success of the first manned space flight in 1961.
The Redstone Test Stand is a remarkable piece of engineering, standing at over 100 feet tall with a diameter of 25 feet. It was designed to withstand the enormous pressure and heat generated during rocket engine testing. The stand was used to test the engines of the Redstone missile, as well as other rockets and missiles developed by the U.S. Army. The test stand was decommissioned in 1968, but it remains a fascinating piece of history, and it has been designated a National Historic Landmark.
In addition to its historical significance, the Redstone Test Stand is an important tourist attraction in Huntsville, Alabama. Visitors can take guided tours of the facility and learn about the science behind rocket testing. The site includes a museum that showcases the history of the Redstone missile and the U.S. Army’s rocket program. There are also exhibits on the role of the Redstone Test Stand in the development of America’s space program.
The Redstone Test Stand is part of a larger complex of facilities at the Redstone Arsenal, which is home to several important government agencies, including NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. The complex is a hub of innovation in aerospace technology, and it continues to play a vital role in the United States’ space program. Huntsville has earned the nickname “Rocket City” because of its rich history in rocket development, and the Redstone Test Stand is a key part of that legacy.
Overall, the Redstone Test Stand is an important piece of American history, and a fascinating destination for anyone interested in science, engineering, or space exploration. Its role in the development of rocket technology cannot be overstated, and its legacy continues to inspire new generations of scientists and engineers.
