This is the Inertial Measurement Unit from the Apollo 17 Command Module, the last Apollo mission to the Moon in 1972. This unit, designed by the MIT Instrumentation Lab and built by AC Spark Plug, employed a system of gyroscopes and other devices to provide a reference platform for the successful navigation of the craft from Earth orbit to Lunar orbit and back.
Transferred by NASA to the Museum in 1977.
Display Status
This object is on display in Human Spaceflight at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
INSTRUMENTS-Navigational
Manufacturer
AC Spark Plug Division, General Motors Corporation
Designer
MIT Instrumentation Laboratory
Dimensions
Overall: 10 1/2 in. tall x 1 ft. 1 in. wide (26.67 x 33.02cm)
Materials
Metal housing, containing various metal and electronic parts inside.
Inventory Number
A19770228000
Credit Line
Transferred from National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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