Otto Berg's early micrometeoroid experiment designed for use on an Aerobee rocket, measuring approximately 8″ x 11″ x 8″, featuring a polished cylindrical sensor within a black housing, attached to an electronics box. Includes a spare example of the hollow cylindrical sensor, measuring 5″ tall and 5″ in diameter. Berg discusses the experiment in his notes: "This was an early attempt to register impacts from meteorites hitting a polished surface. Four of these were extended outward from an Aerobee rocket after launch and then cranked back into a protective cover before impact. The rocket carrying this experiment was launched from Wallops Island and parachuted to Earth and sea-recovered. I was project scientist for two of these missions. These rocket experiments were flown early and prior to my Pioneer experiments which proved that there was no real hazard from meteoric debris. My Pioneer experiments showed that the meteor hazard was less than 1/10,000,000th the hazard which some Russians and some Americans had claimed and therefore it became reasonable for the astronauts to step outside the spacecraft." Includes an original vintage glossy photograph of the complete experiment package. In overall fine condition.
From the collection of Dr. Otto Berg.
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