Object Details
Manufacturer
NASA Marshall Space Flight Center
Summary
This is the sunward canister from a backup unit of the Apollo Telescope Mount. It includes the 8-foot cap, or "sun shield" that houses the light entry ports for the ATM instruments, the handholds, and the locking devices. Built by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, the telescope mount was attached to Skylab's multiple docking adapter. It held eight major scientific instruments and several smaller experiments that were operated from within Skylab. Astronauts used the instruments to study the Sun's surface and atmosphere in visible and ultraviolet light, as well as by x-ray emission. Most of the instruments recorded data on photographic film, which the astronauts replacedas needed.
NASA transferred the telescope mount to NASM in 1982. It was displayed in the Stars gallery from then until the exhibit closed in 1997.
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Inventory Number
A19830234000
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
SPACECRAFT-Crewed-Parts & Structural Components
Materials
Mixed metals, vacuum coated mylar films, connecting hardware.
Dimensions
Overall: 243.8 x 259.1cm (96 x 102 in.)
Country of Origin
United States of America
See more items in
National Air and Space Museum Collection
Location
Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA
Exhibit Station
Space Science
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nasm_A19830234000