Prior to launch of the Saturn I, this lens cap covered the camera used to record stage separations during flight. On test missions, and some launches with a crew, these types of cameras were used to record important steps in the launch sequence for later study by engineers. The cap would have been removed prior to flight and the camera returned safetly to Earth thanks to a parachute in the capsule this cap covered.
NASA transferred the camera and lens cap to the Museum in 1970.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.