Jimmy Doolittle used this radio receiver to “fly the beam,” which was a radio signal that actuated a vibrating reed to indicate if he was on course. The American Radio Corporation built the device in 1929.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
1929
United States of America
AVIONICS-Electronic/Satellite Navigation
Aircraft Radio Corp.
33.2cm long, 14.3cm wide, 16.6cm high; 280-360kc; c.1928; grey; for blind flight.
3-D: 15.2 x 39.4 x 19.1cm, 5.1kg (6 x 15 1/2 x 7 1/2 in., 11 3/16lb.)
Steel, Paint, Plastic, Phenolic Resin, Aluminum
A19840545000
Gift of Cessna Aircraft Company
National Air and Space Museum
Open Access (CCO)
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