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Automatic Pilot, Mechanical Mike, Wiley Post

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Automatic Pilot, Mechanical Mike, Wiley Post

Complete assembly with hydraulic actuators, plex top for viewing.
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Usage Conditions May Apply

Usage Conditions Apply

There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page.
Automatic Pilot, Mechanical Mike, Wiley Post
Wiley Post’s Autopilot “Mechanical Mike”

Post used this Sperry Gyroscope Company prototype for the first generation production autopilot on his 1933 around-the-world flight. Known as “Mechanical Mike,” the autopilot allowed him to simultaneously fly and navigate.

Display Status:

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.

National Air and Space Museum Collection

A19360032000

Complete assembly with hydraulic actuators, plex top for viewing.

Gift of Mrs. Wiley Post

The Sperry Gyroscope Co.

United States of America

Metal, and glass

3-D: 43.2 × 40.6 × 36.8cm (17 × 16 × 14 1/2 in.)

National Air and Space Museum

Open Access (CC0)

For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use.

AVIONICS-Autopilots