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This artifact is an engineering test sample demonstrating an early step in the construction of a microelectronic hybrid, a specialized device combining electrical components and circuits arranged in layers on top of an alumina wafer.

Each layer consisted of three sublayers: a conducting sublayer composed of circuits; an insulating sublayer; and a "via" sublayer that provided connections between adjoining layers. This artifact shows a "via" sublayer, with specially placed openings which allowed technicians to connect one layer to an adjacent layer.

The number of layers in a device ranged from three to eight, depending on its function. A completed hybrid was an ingenious puzzle in which the various layers were integrated through as many as several thousand connections.

Such hybrids were essential components on some types of science and communications satellites in the 1980s and 1990s. Lockheed Martin donated this artifact to the Museum in 1998.

 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-Electronics Manufacturer General Electric Space Systems Division
 Dimensions Overall (Substrate Layer): 5.87 x 5.87 x 0.22cm (2 5/16in. x 2 5/16in. x 1/16in.)
Overall (Paper Label): 9.21 x 1.27cm (3 5/8in. x 1/2in.)
 Materials Overall: Alumina Silicate Ceramic, Copper, Paper, Adhesive, Ink
 Inventory Number A19980310002 Credit Line Gift of Lockheed Martin Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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