Bendix manufactured this open cathode electron multiplier and detector circa early 1960s, typical of detectors flown on early OSO spacecraft. The cathode is not enclosed in a glass or other insulating envelope since it was designed to work in the vacuum of space. A sufficiently energetic UV photon striking the cathode at the entrance grid of the device results in the release of one or more electrons. The first of a series of permanent magnets then directs the emitted electrons onto a strip of specially coated glass. This results in the release of a large number of secondary electrons. Repetition of this process leads to a cascade of charge with the resulting current gain as high as 10 million fold.
The detector was transferred to NASM by NASA (GSFC) in 1995.
Display Status
This object is on display in Boeing Aviation Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
INSTRUMENTS-Scientific
Manufacturer
Bendix Corp.
Dimensions
3-D: 8 x 3.3 x 2.9cm (3 1/8 x 1 5/16 x 1 1/8 in.)
Materials
Overall - metal and glass, electronics
Inventory Number
A19950049000
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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