This device contained a gyroscope--a spinning mass--housed in a set of frames calld gimbals, and floated in an inert fluid. The movement of the gyro during an acceleration was translated into data that gave its velocity. Spacecraft including the Apollo Command and Lunar Modules navigated with the assistance of gyroscopes like this one.
This specimen is unflown and was given to the Museum by one of the engineers involved with its design and construction.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.