Soyuz Clock Part 1: Looking Inside a Flown Soyuz Space Clock

CuriousMarc2 minutes read

RRauction recently offered an Apollo guidance computer and a clock from a Soyuz spacecraft, with the clock displaying various functions and believed to be a chronometer. The clock, dating back to the 1980s, was dismantled to reveal its components, showing potential use in space despite amateurish modifications.

Insights

  • The clock obtained from the auction, featuring multiple timekeeping functions and a history of use in space missions, provides a unique glimpse into the technological evolution of spacecraft instrumentation, showcasing the transition from analog to digital timekeeping in aerospace applications.
  • The clock's disassembled components, such as the dated PCBs and evidence of rework, not only hint at its potential operational use in space but also shed light on the meticulous maintenance and modifications conducted by astronauts or technicians, underscoring the significance of precision and reliability in space missions.

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Recent questions

  • What was recently auctioned by RRauction?

    Apollo guidance computer

  • What features does the clock from the Soyuz spacecraft display?

    Hour, minutes, seconds, switches for start, stop, reset

  • Where was the clock likely used before being replaced by a digital clock?

    Soyuz TM Capsule

  • What components were revealed upon dismantling the clock?

    Integrated circuits, power supply

  • What did the clock's disassembly reveal about its history of use?

    Rework, repairs, potential space use

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Summary

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Soyuz spacecraft clock with unique functions

  • RRauction recently offered an Apollo guidance computer, reaching close to three hundred thousand dollars.
  • Despite losing the bid, the group won several items from the auction, including a clock from a Soyuz spacecraft.
  • The clock displays hour, minutes, seconds, and features switches for start, stop, and reset functions.
  • The clock is believed to be a chronometer and a stopwatch, with additional functions like correction and standby.
  • The clock was likely used in the Soyuz TM Capsule and was later replaced by a digital clock.
  • The clock can be used as an egg timer or synced with other clocks, like an Italian flip clock.
  • The clock was dismantled, revealing numerous components, including integrated circuits and a power supply.
  • The clock's PCBs date back to 1983 and 1984, with primitive ICs and surface mount technology.
  • The clock's disassembly showed rework and repairs, indicating potential use in space, despite some amateurish modifications.
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