This RCA camera and attached 100mm wide-angle lens were part of the first television broadcast from space. This took place during the Apollo 7 mission when astronauts Wally Schirra, Walter Cunningham, and Donn Eisle orbited the Earth hundreds of times over their ten day mission. The black and white camera had three lenses, including a wide angle lens, which was used most frequently. This type of lens and camera were used extensively for orbital and lunar television transmissions during the Apollo program.
NASA transferred this camera and lens to the Museum in 1972.
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-Photographic
Manufacturer
Argus Optics
RCA
Dimensions
3-D: 6.3 × 5.2cm (2 1/2 × 2 1/16 in.)
Materials
Glass, metal alloys, coated
Inventory Number
A19721086003
Credit Line
Transferred from NASA - Manned Spacecraft Center
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.