Sunglasses, Apollo 11

Object Details

Summary

These sunglasses were included in the personal equipment stored for use by astronauts on the Apollo 11 mission to protect their eyes from the sunlight. Without the protection of our atmosphere, sunlight is more harmful to the eyes in space. Spacecraft were supplied with protective window shades and sunglasses for astronaut use, and spacesuit helmets included a layer of gold to reflect the sun's rays during spacewalks.

NASA transferred these sunglasses to the Museum in 1971 with the Apollo 11 spacecraft.

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Manufacturer

American Optical Co.

Credit Line

Transferred from NASA

Materials

Glass, Aluminum, Gold Plating, Plastic

Dimensions

3-D: 13.8 x 15.1 x 4.4cm (5 7/16 x 5 15/16 x 1 3/4 in.)

Type

PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Accessories