This is a silicon target phototube used by James Westphal and his group for astronomical imaging. This vacuum tube, manufactured by RCA, consists of a Vidicon imaging tube, similar to those used for TV, in which the photosensitive front image target has been replaced by a silicon photodiode. The back of the target is scanned by beam of electrons; these create a current when they meet an area of the target that has been exposed to light. This current is then converted electronically into an image. Called a SIVIT (Silicon Intenified Vidicon Tube), it was quite sensitive and had a wide dynamic range. Cooling to -65C enhanced the signal to noise ratio. It was used extensively in studies of the stars.
The California Institute of Technology donated this object to the Museum in 1983.
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
RCA Corp.
Dimensions
3-D: 36.8 × 9.2 × 8.9cm (1 ft. 2 1/2 in. × 3 5/8 in. × 3 1/2 in.)
Materials
HAZMAT: Cadmium Plating
Aluminum
Steel
Glass
Ceramic
Plastic
Synthetic
Paper
Coating
Copper Alloy
Rubber
Inventory Number
A19840035000
Credit Line
Gift of the California Institute of Technology
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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