Ground Support Equipment (GSE) Missile Test Set from circa 1962-1963, with a removable cover that reveals a control panel with three window meters and various buttons related to tests and calibrations. The underside bears a USAF parts label that reads: “Test Set - Missile Component, Rate Gyro, Mfr. Part No. & Ser. No. 5695511, 000006, DAC Part No. 5695511, Mfd. by Amelco Inc., for Douglas Aircraft Co., Inc., Santa Monica, Calif., Contract No. AF 04-647-114, AF Ser. No. 000006.” Above, a red label is numbered “4935-650-5256AD,” and another above that is dated March 1, 1964. The inside of the cover bears an instructions plate, and the left side of the control panel features an affixed Air Force Technical Order label, which reads: “Identification No. 6, Calibration Interval 15 Weeks, Authority To. 21SM75-6, Calibrated for Spin Current Meters,” with the three certification notes dated from October 1962 to October 1963.
A specialized piece of Ground Support Equipment (GSE), a Rate Gyro Test Set was used throughout the aerospace and defense industry for testing and calibrating rate gyroscopes used in missiles and other guided systems. Rate gyros are critical components in missiles and other guidance systems, as they measure the rate of rotation or angular velocity of the missile, which is essential for controlling its flight path and stability, and ensuring that the missile can navigate its intended path accurately.
