This device, made by the Advanced Technology Laboratories, was mounted on the left-hand side of the exterior of the Gemini space capsule. It was used, in conjunction with an electronics package, to sense the position of the Earth's horizon relative to the capsule's position in orbit. It contained a pivoting mirror, lens, and infra-red sensor to locate the horizon. The location of the horizon relative to the spacecraft was used to align the spacecraft or its inertial guidance system.
This specimen was probably not flown but used for test purposes.
Transferred to the National Air and Space Museum from NASA in 1977.
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
INSTRUMENTS-Navigational
Manufacturer
Advanced Technology Laboratories
Dimensions
3-D: 15.6 × 14.1 × 11.7cm, 1.4kg (6 1/8 × 5 9/16 × 4 5/8 in., 3.1lb.)
Materials
Aluminum
Glass
Ruber
Plastic
Coating
HAZMAT: Cadmium Plating
Inventory Number
A19770598000
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.