Propeller, Airlog, Cruise Missile, V-1

The V-1 airlog propeller was a range-counting device. A preset number of revolutions provided an estimate of the distance traveled. When the number of revolutions of the propeller reached the number set by the launch crew, the device sent a signal that resulted in cutting off the pulsejet engine and putting the tail control surfaces into a dive configuration. It the system worked properly, the V-1 would go silent and fall at a steep angle on the target.

A US Army officer, James McFague, acquired this artifact during the invasion or occupation of Germany in 1945. Colin Donovan donated it to the Smithsonian in the name of his grandfather and father and will be installed on the Museum's V-1, A19600342000, during restoration..