Launch Escape Tower Jettison Motor

The Apollo Launch Escape System (LES) tower jettison motor was used to jettison the launch escape tower and Boost Protective Cover shortly after second stage ignition, when the LES and BPC were no longer required for astronaut safety.

The engine is display upside-down, as compared to its orientation in the launch escape tower. For much more information on the tower jettison motor, see Qualification Evaluation of the Tower Jettison Motor for the Apollo Spacecraft Program Launch Escape System.

Since I began visiting the museum, they renovated the gallery (circa October 2007), so I have a few photos from before the renovation as well as photos in its current setting.