This type of cable was used on the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project in 1975, during which a live TV broadcast showed the first docking of American and Soviet spacecraft. Powering camera equipment on early space missions required long cables or heavy battery packs. This cable connected the camera to the spacecraft for power and to transmit a television signal back to Earth.
This cable was transferred from NASA to the Museum in 1978.
Display Status
This object is on display in James S. McDonnell Space Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
EQUIPMENT-Photographic
Manufacturer
Unknown
Dimensions
Overall (cable): 274.32cm (9ft)
Other (large coupling): 12.07 x 4.45 x 14.61cm (4 3/4in. x 1 3/4in. x 5 3/4in.)
Other (cylinder): 6.35 x 4.45cm (2 1/2in. x 1 3/4in.)
Materials
metal, fiber optic cable
Inventory Number
A19781835000
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 Smithsonian’s Terms of Use.