From The Archives: Martin Marietta Corp.'s Maneuvering Unit For NASA Skylab Program

Astronaut Bruce McCandless tests the balance and control of a test model of an astronaut maneuvering unit at Martin Marietta Corp.'s Denver Division, as seen on the cover of the August 2, 1971 issue of Aviation Week & Space Technology.

The 255-lb. unit is powered by jets of nitrogen and contains gyroscopes, a computer and data transmitter. Flight duration is 30 min. 

First of two units has been delivered to the National Aeronautics & Space Administration. One will be tested inside the Skylab orbiting workshop during the 28-day mission scheduled for the spring of 1973.

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