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In 1978, Japanese explorer Naomi Uemura undertook in quick succesion two challenging expeditions in the Arctic. After a journey of more than two months, he became the first person to reach the North Pole via a solo overland journey. Soon after this accomplishment, he sought to complete another first, a north-south overland traverse of Greenland, a distance of more than 1600 nautical miles (2900 kilometers), but had to halt the effort just before reaching his goal.

The Smithsonian Institution played a crucial supporting role in these expeditions, providing Uemura with a battery-operated data collection platform, designed to communicate with the Nimbus 6 meteorlogical satellite. Strapped to his dog sled as he crossed remote, isolated terrain, the device provided position, time, temperature, and barometric pressure data.

Mr. Uemura donated this artifact to the Museum 1978.

 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 EQUIPMENT-Electronics Manufacturer Handar Inc.
 Dimensions Overall: 7.62 x 12.7 x 33.02cm (3in. x 5in. x 1ft 1in.)
 Materials Aluminum, Plastic, Enclosed Electronics, Adhesive, Wood, Rubber, Lead, Paper, Synthetic Fabric
 Inventory Number A19790218000 Credit Line Gift of Naomi Uemura Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.