Uncommon Block II Command Module translation hand controller. Unit measures 6 x 4 x 4 and retains its umbilical, with Beta cloth wrapping at the connection and where the umbilical splits. Affixed to one side of the unit are three Honeywell labels, with the first one reading, “Control—Translation; Mfr. Part No. CG160G2;…Contract No. M5J7XAZ-450012A; Mfr. Serial No. 10028DAL1009; Mfr. Date 12 OCT 1966.” The other two labels indicate modifications were made in 1970. Unit is complete with its green cover which is labeled, “Remove before S. C. S. Test or Launch.” In fine condition.
The hand controller would have been mounted on the left arm rest of the commanders couch. Its primary function was to provide 3 axis manual control of spacecraft velocity changes. During launch, however, rotation of the T-handle counterclockwise also would initiate an abort during the launch sequence; after launch rotation clockwise (in conjunction with positioning of panel switches) overrode the autopilot and enabled several different modes of Spacecraft and Thrust Vector control modes of operation. RR Auction COA.
