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This Pacific Optical camera is similar to those recovered in the ocean following launches of the Saturn I rocket. The cameras recorded the separation of the Saturn I first stage from its second stage. After the camera capsule ejected from the rocket, small fins stabilized the capsule, then the parachute opened, guiding it to a landing downrange from Cape Canaveral. The development of rockets that could send humans to the Moon began with the Saturn I, several of which were launched in the early 1960s.

NASA transferred this camera capsule to the Museum in 1972.

 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 EQUIPMENT-Photographic Manufacturer Pacific Optical
 Dimensions 3-D: 100.3 x 50.8 x 26.7cm (39 1/2 x 20 x 10 1/2 in.)
3-D (Antenna): 24.8 x 3.2 x 1.6cm (9 3/4 x 1 1/4 x 5/8 in.)
 Materials Aluminum, Copper Alloy, Anodized Aluminum, Synthetic Fabric, Glass, Paint, Foam, Plastic, Ink, Adhesive, Cadmium
 Inventory Number A19731644000 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.