Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer

This is an unflown example of a flight data recorder that has been installed on most modern commercial aircraft in the United States beginning in the 1990s. It uses all solid-state recording, and is designed to withstand the shock of a crash, fire, or submersion under water. ALthough popularly known as the "Black Box," it is in fact painted bright orange to make it easier to locate.

 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 AVIONICS Manufacturer Loral Data Systems
 Physical Description Rectangular metal box equipped with handle on front face filled with circuit boards and electronic components. Dimensions 3-D: 56.5 × 19.8 × 12.1cm (1 ft. 10 1/4 in. × 7 13/16 in. × 4 3/4 in.)
 Materials Anodized Aluminium Alloy
Ferrous Alloy
Epoxy Glass
Plastic
AdhesiveAdhesive Paper
Paint
Ink
Non-magnetic white metal
 Inventory Number A19950036000 Credit Line Gift of Loral Data Systems. Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.