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NASA Mission Control Computer Chip

NASA Mission Control Computer Chip

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Matter Item #54


During the 1970s–80s, NASA used state-of-the-art computers from the company Modular Computer Systems. These "MODCOMP" systems were used in processing and controlling the telemetry of many space projects including the Voyager probes, Skylab, as well as the early Space Shuttle launches. 

NASA has obviously upgraded their systems since, and so we were able to purchase several used MODCOMP computer boards and carefully extract the microchips so that more people could share and enjoy this artifact.

By purchasing one of these chips, you are purchasing a piece of computing and space history. While the look and function of these components may vary, each served critical data to and from some of humankind's most ambitious space exploration projects.


Acrylic display capsule included.

The pictures shown may not be the exact chip you'll receive.

Images: NASA

  • Research Card
  • Certificate of Authenticity
  • Acrylic Display Case
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Collections containing this item:
Bestsellers | Computing | Historical Artifacts | NASA | Newest Listings | Outer Space | Space Flight Artifacts | Stemcell Catalog | Voyager | Wholesale Products |

Online References

Technical Details

These "chips" are mostly dual in-line packages (DIP) with integrated circuits. Their functions are mostly logic gates, resistors, switches, etc.

We have preserved the technical manual for the MODCOMP II computer here: https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0059/0158/2449/files/Modcomp_II_Manual_Oct72.pdf

fig. 1

MODCOMP

In addition to tracking and data collection from probe missions, NASA used 250 MODCOMP II computers (front panel pictured) to control the Space Shuttle complex at Cape Canaveral.

Image by ajmexico

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J.K. (Virginia, United States)

Fun piece of history and very fast shipping.

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NASA Mission Control Computer Chip

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