Highly desirable Soyuz T Globus IMP navigational instrument, measuring 11.5″ x 8″ x 5.5″, used as a positional indicator to display the spacecraft’s location relative to Earth. The impressive electro-mechanical device incorporates hundreds of mechanical components common to horology in order to move the three-dimensional terrestrial globe displayed at the center. Throughout the whole flight, the globe would move beneath the crosshair etched on its transparent cover, mirroring the apparent movement of Earth under the spacecraft. The latitude and longitude are indicated above and beside the globe, and initial orbit parameters were preset using the knobs on the faceplate. Numbered bullets affixed to the globe indicate communications stations.
In addition to displaying the location of the spacecraft, the Globus IMP is designed to provide the cosmonaut with: the intended place of landing of the ship when the braking propulsion system (TDU) is switched on at the moment; the number of revolutions around the Earth made since entering the orbit; radio visibility zones of HF and VHF radio stations; and the time remaining before entering or leaving the shadow.
In very good to fine cosmetic condition, with a dent to the rear panel of the housing; functionality untested. An absolutely fantastic piece of aerospace history that also holds enormous appeal to collectors of advanced horological instruments, maps, and globes.
