This is a model of one internal component of the SINS (Ships Inertial Navigation System) Mark IV developed in the early 1950s by Dr. Charles Stark Draper. Inertial navigation systems use gyroscopes and other instruments to feed information into a computer, which calculates the degree of drift from the intended course and recommends any needed corrections. Dr. Draper, founder of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Instrumentation Laboratory, was known as the "father of inertial navigation." He started working on the theory and technology of these systems in the 1930s, and through the decades his work led directly to their development and use in U.S. aircraft, rockets, missiles, ships, and manned and unmanned spacecraft.
The Draper Instrumentation Laboratory made the model and Dr. Draper donated it to the Museum in 1974.
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
MODELS-Miscellaneous
Manufacturer
Draper Instrumentation Laboratory
Dimensions
Overall: 10 1/2in. x 8 1/2in. x 10in. (26.67 x 21.59 x 25.4cm)
Materials
Body and base: aluminum
Hardware: steel, brass
Feet on bottom of base: rubber
Inventory Number
A19800491000
Credit Line
Gift of Dr. Charles S. Draper
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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