Lens Cover, Aperture, 30mm, Spare, IMAX

This spare aperature cover was available for use when the 30mm IMAX camera lens was stowed or between filming sessions to protect the delicate glass optics. It was flown on each of the twelve space shuttle missions in the 1980s and 1990s when IMAX filming was done.

Astronauts used the IMAX camera to capture film footage that contributed to five IMAX productions. The first of these, The Dream Is Alive (1985), still ranks as the most popular of all IMAX feature films. Four of the films were co-sponsored by IMAX, NASA, the National Air and Space Museum, and Lockheed Martin. By carefully training the astronauts not only to operate the camera but also to act as cinematographers to capture both the thrilling and ordinary activities in orbit, IMAX produced films that virtually put the audience inside and outside the shuttle.

Gift of the IMAX Corporation in 2011.