Object Details
Model Maker
Exhibits of California, Inc.
Manufacturer
MIT Instrumentation Laboratory
Manufactured for
United States Navy
Summary
This is part of the inertial guidance system of a U.S. Navy Poseidon C-3 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM). Designed by the MIT Instrumentation Laboratory, it used a set of gyroscopes and accelerometers to measure the missile's velocity and position.
Developed by Lockheed, Poseidon C-3s were two-stage, solid-fuel missiles with a range of approximately 5300 km (3,300 miles). Deployed from 1971 to the early 1990s, sixteen missiles were carried on a submarine, with each missile having up to 16 independently-targetable nuclear warheads.
This specimen was made from spare parts and donated by the U.S. Navy to the Museum in 1973.
Credit Line
Transferred from Lockheed Missiles & Space Company
Inventory Number
A19731668002
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
CRAFT-Missile & Rocket Parts
Materials
Wood, metal, and plastic
Dimensions
Other (MK3): 2 ft. tall x 1 ft. 6 in. wide (60.96 x 45.72cm)
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
Rockets & Missiles
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nasm_A19731668002