This is an unflown specimen of a sensor that located the horizon of the Earth or Moon by sensing the change in infrared radiation as the device scanned the horizon. After locating the horizon, it was able to determine the local vertical at that point. The sensor was probabaly used during the Gemini program, during missions where a Gemini spacecraft rendezvoused and docked with an Agena target vehicle.

NASA transferred it to the Museum in 1973.

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

Barnes Engineering

Dimensions

Overall: 6 5/8in. x 5 1/4in. (16.83 x 13.34cm)

Materials

Aluminum
Plastic
Stainless Steel
Brass
Copper
Glass
Paint
Paper
Adhesive

Inventory Number

A19790638000

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.