In this type of camera, continuously moving film matched the aircraft's speed, a technique that resulted in a more precise image at low altitude or high speed. Col. George Goddard of the Army Air Corps pioneered the concept and asked the Russell Vought Division of the Solar Aircraft Company to build prototypes. The Navy tested the Vought camera first. It has a 3½-inch stereo lens (displayed behind the camera) and a 6-inch single metrogon (90-degree, wide-angle) lens. The camera control unit for the 6-inch lens adjusts exposures according to speed and altitude.

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

EQUIPMENT-Photographic

Manufacturer

Solar Aircraft Co.

Physical Description

20 x 14 x 17in.; 24v; Single lens, metrogon f:6.3; focal length 6in. (153.4mm) and Bausch & Lomb 3 1/2 in. stereo lens (wide angle velo stigmat, 90mm) . 2camera controls,camera face & elect. cable in box

Dimensions

3-D: 20 x 14 x 17cm (7 7/8 x 5 1/2 x 6 11/16 in.)
3-D (Control Boxes): 15.5 x 9 x 17.5cm (6 1/8 x 3 9/16 x 6 7/8 in.)
3-D (Stereo Lens): 35.5 x 7.5 x 37cm (14 x 2 15/16 x 14 9/16 in.)

Inventory Number

A19710973000

Credit Line

Transferred from the United States Department of the Navy

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
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