This Leica camera with attached spectrograph was a backup to those flown on the Gemini V and VIII missions. Longer missions during the Gemini program gave astronauts more time for scientific experiments, often created and monitored by other government agencies or academic institutions. Scientists at the U.S. Weather Bureau (now NOAA) created this camera attachment so it could simultaneously record a spectrum and an infrared image to determine cloud heights.
This camera was transferred from NOAA to the Museum in 1987.
Display Status
This object is on display in James S. McDonnell Space Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Country of Origin
Germany
Type
EQUIPMENT-Photographic
Manufacturer
Bell & Howell Co.
Leica
U.S. Weather Bureau, Meteorological Sat. Lab
Dimensions
Overall: 6 in. tall x 5 1/2 in. wide x 5 1/2 in. deep (15.24 x 13.97 x 13.97cm)
Materials
glass, metal, plastic, fabric
Inventory Number
A19870360000
Credit Line
Transferred from NOAA
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.