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This is an unflown specimen of the Apollo Attitude Translation and Control System. The ATCA was part of the electronics suite for the Lunar Module. It accepted inputs from the on-board computer (either the primary Apollo Guidance Computer, or, if necessary, from the Abort Electronics System), and from the Lunar Module's crew actions on the two hand controllers. It directed the firing of the reaction control system of small rockets on the edges of the LM. These small rockets adjusted the LMs attitude (its orientaion in the x,y, and z axes), and they also allowed the crew to move the LM sideways ("translate") as necessary to find a suitable landing site.

NASA transferred this unit to the Museum in 1973.

 Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin United States of America Type EQUIPMENT-Autopilots Manufacturer RCA
 Dimensions 3-D: 71.1 x 29.2 x 54.6cm (28 x 11 1/2 x 21 1/2 in.)
 Materials HAZMAT: Possible Cadmium Plating
Aluminum, Paint, Plastic, Paper, Adhesive, Rubber (Silicone), Nylon, Gold Plating, Epoxy, Phenolic Resin, Copper, Foam, Mylar (Polyester), Adhesive, Glass
 Inventory Number A19740023000 Credit Line Gift of RCA Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.