Lark Engine

Display location: Museum exhibit hall

Lark was launched by two solid-fuel booster engines and powered in flight by a LR2-RM-2 liquid-propellant rocket engine. Later Lark vehicles used a slightly improved LR2-RM-6 engine. Built by Reaction Motors, a Lark engine used red fuming nitric acid (HN03 + 13% N204 and 13% H20) as fuel. This fuel was so highly corrosive and toxic that those workers handling it had to wear chemical-safe suits for protection. Housed inside the main body of the Lark, the engine was capable of producing 620 pounds of thrust.

Lark with boosters affixed being prepared for launch
26 October 1950