This cable is a training version of the one used to supply electricity to a black and white Westinghouse television camera of the type used to broadcast Neil Armstrong's first step on the Moon to the world. The television camera, stowed inside the Modular Equipment Stowage Area (MESA) of lunar module decent stage, was activated just prior to the first steps via a lanyard system by the astronaut. After Armstrong's historic first step, the television camera was moved to a stand away from the lunar module and connected to a longer power cable to allow wider angle television shots of lunar surface activities.

NASA transferred this power cable 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-Photographic

Manufacturer

Westinghouse Electric Corporation

Dimensions

Overall (Entire Length): 9ft 1in. (276.86cm)
Overall (Cord Length): 8ft 4 1/2in. (255.27cm)
Overall (Large Connector): 6in. x 2 5/8in. x 1in. (15.24 x 6.67 x 2.54cm)
Overall (Small Connector): 2 5/8in. x 2 1/2in. x 1 3/8in. (6.67 x 6.35 x 3.49cm)

Materials

Silver-Plated Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Synthetic Fabric, Unknown Metal, Plastic, Brass, Adhesive

Inventory Number

A19731478000

Credit Line

Transferred from NASA

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.