Delta GEM

Delta GEM

Sometimes called a solid rocket "strap-on," the graphite epoxy motor (GEM) was used to augment launch thrust for the Delta rocket. This early version of a GEM was normally used in a group of three evenly-spaced around the base of the Delta first stage. Built on the technology of the U.S. Air Force Thor Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM), the Delta rocket series became the workhorse for launches at the Cape. This GEM is an inert training device.