Each Apollo spacecraft was equipped with a set of two survival rucksacks. The contents were to be used in the event of an emergency landing in remote areas of the world.
This black box-shaped UHF radio was part of the survival rucksack 1 flown on the Apollo 15 mission in July/August 1971. Primarily made of steel, it could operate either as a “beacon” or for two-way voice communications. Permanently set to operate at 243 MHz, the transceiver and its cylindrical battery pack were water-tight. It could operate in beacon mode for up to 24 hours. An extendable antenna, a second battery pack, and a spacecraft connector cable were also provided.
This radio was transferred from NASA to the Smithsonian in 1978.
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-Communications Devices
Manufacturer
Cubic Corporation
Dimensions
3-D: 20.3 x 5.7cm (8 x 2 1/4 in.)
Materials
Steel, stainless steel
Inventory Number
A19781451018
Credit Line
Transferred from NASA, Johnson Space Center.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.