Thermal Insulation Brackets

For certain static tests or when installed on a Saturn V S-IC (first) stage for launch, the F-1 engine was clad in thermal insulation, preventing recirculating gasses from damaging the engines. While the thrust chamber was wrapped in blankets, the forward end of the engine had a "cocoon" of insulation around it. This cocoon was supported by brackets mounted on the engine around the turbopump and propellant high-pressure ducts.

Relatively few engines are displayed with the thermal insulation brackets (although F-5036 and F-4023, both displayed at Marshall Space Flight Center, retain their brackets). F-6090, the engine chosen for disassembly, also had these brackets.

These brackets were removed during the disassembly process and were stored near the thrust chamber.