Rare and early Block II Apollo Command Module Rotation Control. Controller housing measures 7.25 x 5.5 x 3, and is labeled on the face “Property NASA” with its attached umbilical measuring 103″ long. Honeywell identification plates to one side identify part as “Rotation Control, Mfr Part No. DCG166D1; Stock No.: ME901-0704-0101; Serial Number 10028DAK1001, manufactured 23 NOV 1966.” Handle retains the trigger switch which would activate the astronaut’s headset. In fine condition, with several labels and stamps to housing, as well as scattered surface marks. This controller was originally sold at a NASA GSA sale in 2001.
Also referred to as an attitude controller or rotation hand control, this was used for controlling the spacecraft attitude. Handle pivots at the palm for pitch up/down, through the center of the handle for yaw left/right, and inside the housing for roll left/right. Levers in front of the handle lock the handle or unlock it for operation. Actual flown handles from missions are prized possessions of the astronauts in their private collections, and very difficult to come by for private collectors. To obtain such a rare and early Block II Rotational Control handle is a unique opportunity and makes for a fine display piece in any Apollo-era collection. RRAuction COA.
