This is the housing for a Hemispherical Resonator Gyro (HRG). An HRG senses acceleration by the change in phase of vibration of a cup-shaped resonator, similar to the way a wine-glass resonates when rubbed by a wet finger. The device is rugged and accurate, and it has replaced other models of mechanical gyroscopes on most deep-space missions, as well as in other applications.

Northrop Grumman donated this to the Museum in 2011.

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

SPACECRAFT-Uncrewed-Guidance & Control

Manufacturer

Northrop Grumman Guidance and Electronics Company, INC.

Dimensions

3-D: 11.1 x 11.7 x 6.7cm (4 3/8 x 4 5/8 x 2 5/8 in.)

Materials

Case: Metal, probably aluminum.
Wire connector, Iron alloy, plastic, quartz, gold plating

Inventory Number

A20110026000

Credit Line

Gift of Northrop Grumman.

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

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