This chronograph was worn by astronaut Gordon Cooper, Commander of the Gemini V mission in August 1965. The Omega Speedmaster Chronograph was chosen by NASA for the U.S. space program after a series of rigorous tests demonstrated its high level of precision and reliability. Program requirements called for a manual-winding wrist chronograph that was water-proof, shock-proof, anti-magnetic, and able to withstand temperatures ranging from 0 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit and accelerations of 12 g's. The Omega Speedmaster was certified by NASA as the chronograph for the Gemini program in June 1965, and was also purchased for all programs that followed through today.
NASA transferred the astronaut chronographs to the Smithsonian in 1977.
Display Status
This object is on display in Destination Moon at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.
Object Details
Country of Origin
Switzerland
Type
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Accessories
Astronaut
Leroy Gordon Cooper Jr.
Manufacturer
Omega Watch Co.
Dimensions
3-D: 13.3 x 4.1 x 1.9cm (5 1/4 x 1 5/8 x 3/4 in.)
Materials
Stainless Steel, Hesalite (synthetic crystal), Paint
Inventory Number
A19771140000
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.