The Mercury-Redstone booster used in the Project Mercury launching was provided and launched for the Space Task Group by the Marshall Space Flight Center, National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
The vehicle is based upon the Army's Redstone which was designed and developed by Marshall scientists and technicians prior to their transfer to NASA. Extensive modifications were incorporated to adapt the rocket to this special role, with major emphasis on increased reliability. The Redstone booster has already achieved a significant record of reliable flight in a launching history which extends over the past seven years. Of the last 40 Redstones launched, only one booster has failed. Height 14 1/2 inches.