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This Pacific Optical camera, recovered in the ocean after the SA-5 launch in 1964, recorded the first-ever separation of the Saturn I rocket's first stage from its second stage. After the camera capsule ejected from the rocket, small fins stabilized the capsule, then the parachute opened and guided it to a landing downrange from Cape Canaveral. The development of rockets that could send humans to the Moon began with the Saturn I, several of which were launched in the early 1960s.

NASA transferred this camera capsule to the Museum in 1970.

 Display Status

This object is on display in James S. McDonnell Space Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.

James S. McDonnell Space Hangar
Object Details
Country of Origin United States of America Type EQUIPMENT-Photographic Manufacturer Pacific Optical
 Dimensions 3-D: 30.5 x 83.8 x 31.8cm, 20.4kg (12 x 33 x 12 1/2 in., 45lb.)
 Materials Fabric parachute, plastic lens cap, glass lens and lens cover, aluminum capsule
 Inventory Number A19700275000 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.