Flight-spare x-ray spectrometer identical to one that flew on the OSO-V satellite launched on 22 January 1969. It was used to examine the very high temperature spectrum from solar flares in the x-ray region. Developed at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center this experiment provided the first detailed observations of x-ray and ultraviolet radiation from solar flares estimated to be at temperatures of 10 to 30 million degrees. This flight-spare instrument is similar to one flown on OSO-III. Transferred from GSFC/NASA in 1983, it was on display in the "Stars" Gallery from 1983 until October 1997.

Display Status

This object is on display in Boeing Aviation Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.

Boeing Aviation Hangar

Object Details

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

INSTRUMENTS-Scientific

Manufacturer

American Machine and Foundry

Dimensions

3-D: 111.8 x 33 x 20.3cm (44 x 13 x 8 in.)

Materials

Aluminum, beryllium, mixed leightweight metals, Bragg crystals, electronics

Inventory Number

A19830231000

Credit Line

Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.