This extraordinary artifact is a genuine fragment of a thermal protection tile that flew aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour during mission STS-77 in May 1996. These Low-Temperature Reusable Surface Insulation (LRSI) tiles formed a critical part of the Shuttle’s Thermal Protection System—designed to shield the orbiter from the intense heat of reentry, where temperatures could soar to 3,000°F (1,650°C).
This particular piece comes from a tile that was part of Endeavour’s Orbital Maneuvering System (OMS) pod on the upper fuselage and was removed during preparations for her next mission, STS-88, in 1997. The tile was destructively removed during routine maintenance, and only a limited number of fragments were preserved.
Each fragment consists of the tile’s distinctive white silica insulation material—an advanced, lightweight structure known for its low thermal conductivity. The fragment is presented in a custom display, with the material housed in a removable clear specimen jar, allowing for closer hands-on examination.
A rare opportunity to own a tangible piece of the fifth and final Space Shuttle Orbiter —authentic, storied, and beautifully presented.
Inspection and decommissioning paperwork, along with scrap tags, were obtained with the space-flown thermal protection tile. We've divided up the fragments of this tile so that more people can own a piece of this historical space vehicle.
Mission STS-77 of the Space Shuttle Endeavour
Due to federal restrictions, this item is only for sale to U.S. Citizens and will only ship within the United States. No export allowed. International orders will be cancelled. Buyer is responsibility for compliance with ITAR and any other U.S. export controls and regulations.
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