One of the signs which accompanied the CSM/SLA. It reads
NASA Saturn V Launch Vehicle
Launch Escape System
In the event of an aborted launch requiring rapid crew evacuation, the Launch
Escape System (LES) could carry the Command Module (CM) to a safe splashdown in
the Atlantic Ocean. The LES was an open-frame tower structure supporting a
cylinder which housed three rocket motors: The primary LES rocket motor, a pitch control motor to
maneuver the CM towards the ocean in case of an abort on the pad or at low
altitude, and a tower
jettison motor, which jettisoned the LES at about 55.9 mi (89.9 km)
altitude, or 30 seconds after the second (S-II)
stage ignited. The LES was mounted to the top of the CM by four explosive
bolts. In case the LES had to be used, the CM would be protected from
the hot exhaust gases by a cover made of resin-impregnated fiberglass covered
with cork.
Height: 33ft (10m)
Diameter: 4ft (1.2m)
Weight: 8,910 lbs (39,600N)
LES motor thrust: 147,000lbs (645,000N)
Pitch control motor thrust: 2,400lbs (10,700N)
Jettison motor thrust: 31,500lbs (140,200N)
Contractors:
Lockheed Propulsion Company: Launch escape motor
Lockheed Propulsion Company: Pitch control motor
Thiokol Chemical Corporation: Tower jettison motor