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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 (Charged Coupled Device): 3.5 × 3.5 × 1.9cm (1 3/8 × 1 3/8 × 3/4 in.)
 Materials Steel
Glass
Inorganics
Unknown Metal
Paper
Aluminum
 Inventory Number A20000700000 Credit Line Gift of Scientific Imaging Technologies Inc. Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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