Each Viking Lander was equipped with two identical cameras that, unlike conventional cameras, did not use film. Instead, a moveable mirror scanned a vertical segment of the martian scene, and photodetectors recorded the amount of light reflected into the camera. A complete picture, or "image" of the surface was made by completing a vertical scan, and then rotating the camera slightly for the next scan.
This back-up camera was transferred from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory to the Museum in 1981.
Display Status
This object is on display in Kenneth C. Griffin Exploring the Planets Gallery at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
SPACECRAFT-Uncrewed-Instruments & Payloads
Manufacturer
ITEK Corporation
Dimensions
3-D (Overall): 59.1 × 26cm (1 ft. 11 1/4 in. × 10 1/4 in.)
Materials
Resin Impregnated Fiberglass
Aluminum
Beryllium
Ferrous Alloy
Glass
Synthetic Fiber Fabric
Plastics
Paint
Electrical Wiring
Ink
Inventory Number
A19810661000
Credit Line
Transferred from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.
