Object Details
Manufacturer
ITEK Corporation
Summary
The Large Format Camera (LFC) flew on a Space Shuttle mission in 1984, photographing large swaths of the Earth's surface.
Originally developed for use in high-altitude aircraft, the camera took its name from its large format film (23 x 46 cm). This film size, in combination with the camera's special optics, allowed the LFC to capture in a single frame more than 60,000 square kilometers (23,400 square miles) with enough resolution to distinguish buildings and roads. The images helped in creating precise, detailed maps and aided in geological analysis, environmental monitoring, and urban planning.
The museum's artifact is a model of the camera and associated electronics, but includes real optics, which can be seen through a cutaway. ITEK Corporation donated the model to the Museum in 1985.
Credit Line
Gift of ITEK Corporation
Inventory Number
A19850653000
Restrictions & Rights
CC0
Type
MODELS-Uncrewed Spacecraft & Parts
Materials
Aluminum, plastic, wood
Dimensions
Approximate (assembled): 2 ft. 9 in. deep x 4 ft. 4 in. tall x 2 ft. 9 in. wide (83.82 x 132.08 x 83.82cm). Support (display attachment): 2 ft. 7 in. diameter x 2 ft. 1 in. tall (78.74 x 63.5cm). Weight: 113 kg (250 lbs).
Country of Origin
United States of America
See more items in
National Air and Space Museum Collection
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nasm_A19850653000