Walter Munn and the K-50 Geodetic Camera

Summary

Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory staffer, Walter A. Munn using the K-50 Geodetic Camera. This is a satellite tracking camera to be used in studies of the earth's shape and size thereby affording precise photographic observations of artificial satellites that will allow the accurate points on the globe, thus providing better representation of intercontinental distances. The camera was designed and built by Smithsonian technicians using a lens system originally designed by Dr. James Baker for aerial photography. The camera (with mount) is 8 feet high and 3 1/2 feet wide on the short axis and 7 feet wide on the long axis. It weighs nearly 2500 pounds.

Subject

Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory

Category

Historic Images of the Smithsonian

Notes

There is additional information about the camera on the fact sheet attached to the original photograph.

Contained within

Smithsonian Institution Archives, Record Unit 108, Box 1, Folder: 9

Contact information

Institutional History Division, Smithsonian Institution Archives, 600 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20024-2520, SIHistory@si.edu

Date

c. 1970

Restrictions & Rights

No restrictions

Topic

• Photography
• Observatories
• Munn, Walter A
• Instruments
• K-50 Geodetic Camera
• Scientific apparatus and instruments
• Smithsonian Institution
• Personnel management
• Employees
• Smithsonian Institution--Employees

Form/Genre

• Photographic print
• Object
• Person, candid

ID Number

2005-10439

Physical description

Color: Black and White; Size: 8w x 10h; Type of Image: Object; Person, candid; Medium: Photographic print

Full Record

View Full Record