This charge coupled device (CCD), SITE Model SI502AF, is typical of those used in space flight applications in the 1980's. It has 512x512 pixels, or electronic diodes, and is back illuminated. Diodes convert light photons directly to electical signals, which are then processed digitally to produce images. Because of their enhanced sensitivity and ruggedness, back illuminated CCD's are the favored design for low light level space imaging applications. Back illumination is a manufacturing method that reverses the diodes so that incident light hits the photosensitive surface first before passing through the electronic circuitry.

This sample was manufactured by Scientific Imaging Technologies, Inc. and donated by them to NASM in 2000.

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

INSTRUMENTS-Scientific

Manufacturer

Scientific Imaging Technologies, Inc.

Dimensions

3-D (Case): 18.1 × 9.8 × 3cm (7 1/8 × 3 7/8 × 1 3/16 in.)

Materials

Plastic
Synthetic
Paper
Aluminum

Inventory Number

A20000700001

Credit Line

Gift of Scientific Imaging Technologies Inc.

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
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