Saturn V dynamic test vehicle
The Saturn V dynamic test vehicle, designated SA-500D, is a prototype Saturn V rocket used by NASA to test the performance of the rocket when vibrated to simulate the shaking which subsequent rockets would experience during launch. It was the first full-scale Saturn V completed by the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). Though SA-500D never flew, it was instrumental in the development of the Saturn V rocket which propelled the first men to the Moon as part of the Apollo program. Built under the direction of Dr. Wernher von Braun, it served as the test vehicle for all of the Saturn support facilities at MSFC.
Saturn V dynamic test vehicle | |
The first stage of this Saturn V is hoisted into position for a shake test at the Saturn V dynamic test stand in 1966. | |
| Location | Huntsville, Alabama |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 34°42′38.2″N 86°39′25.6″W |
| Built | 1964 |
| Architect | NASA-Marshall Space Flight Center; Boeing Aircraft |
| NRHP reference No. | 78000500 |
| Significant dates | |
| Added to NRHP | November 22, 1978 |
| Designated NHL | February 10, 1987 |
SA-500D is the only Saturn V on display that was used for its intended purpose, and the only one to have been assembled prior to museum display. It is on permanent display at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, Huntsville, Alabama.