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Author
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Topic: Gemini spacecraft backup batteries
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teachspace
Member Posts: 100
From: river edge, nj usa
Registered: Sep 2003
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posted 12-06-2025 09:53 AM
   
Where were the backup batteries located in the Gemini spacecraft? I think they were in the adapter section but I can't find a picture. I'm teaching a class about the Gemini spacecraft. |
Headshot
Member Posts: 1436
From: Vancouver, WA, USA
Registered: Feb 2012
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posted 12-06-2025 12:49 PM
I am not certain what you mean by back-up batteries. There were batteries located in the adapter section for early Gemini spacecraft configurations and fuel cells for others.There were also seven silver zinc oxide batteries located on a panel in the re-entry module. Three small batteries for firing off the squibs and four larger ones for other purposes, including powering the re-entry module after the two adapters were jettisoned. On the Gemini switch panels there were four toggle switches under "Main Batteries," and three under "Squib Batteries." I have not seen anything labelled "Back-Up Batteries," but my Gemini control panel diagrams are a bit "muddy." Hope this helps. |
space1
Member Posts: 970
From: Danville, Ohio
Registered: Dec 2002
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posted 12-06-2025 05:46 PM
In the Gemini Reentry Module the batteries (regular and squib as noted above) are located in the right hand equipment bay. The batteries are among the box shapes seen in this Gemini cutaway diagram. |
teachspace
Member Posts: 100
From: river edge, nj usa
Registered: Sep 2003
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posted 12-06-2025 06:53 PM
Thanks so much. I was referring to the batteries that backed up the fuel cells. I really appreciate your assistance. |
Headshot
Member Posts: 1436
From: Vancouver, WA, USA
Registered: Feb 2012
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posted 12-08-2025 05:28 PM
I am curious as to what led you to believe that the Gemini spacecraft had back-up batteries for the fuel cells.If it did, certainly NASA would have engaged them at the beginning of the Gemini 5 mission (August 1965), when a performance issue with the fuel cells threatened to end the mission prematurely. The crew had to drift along at minimum power for days until the situation "fixed" itself. |
space1
Member Posts: 970
From: Danville, Ohio
Registered: Dec 2002
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posted 12-09-2025 05:09 AM
Regarding "backup batteries," the Reentry Module batteries were considered a backup to the primary fuel cell power source in the adapter. Perhaps this is the source of the confusion. But with their limited power capacity their use would have been restricted. I don't know the mission rules, but certainly switching to these batteries would have forced a shortened mission. |
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