This is part of the internal resonant portion of a Hemispherical Resonator Gyro (HRG). It measures the vibration of the cup-shaped resonator, which is an indicaiton of acceleration. 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 asn 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: 2 × 3.8cm (13/16 × 1 1/2 in.)
Materials
Metal.
Inventory Number
A20110026003
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.