This is an ear pad from the helmet that was worn by astronaut Ed White, Pilot of the Gemini IV mission in June 1965. This was the first manned Gemini mission in which an astronaut "walked in space".
The helmet was constructed of fiberglass and epoxy resin and was molded to fit directly into the neck bearing. A Plexiglas visor, capable of being raised for access, was attached with pivots, and when lowered into pressure sealing position, it locked in place with a latch. The additional visor of Plexiglas coated with gold, was designed to filter out the extreme light of the sun's rays. Communication devices with suede-covered ear pads were incorporated into the helmet.
This ear pad became detached from proper right side of the helmet.
NASA transferred the helmet to the Museum in 1967.
