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NASA Mission Control Computer Chip

NASA Mission Control Computer Chip

433 total reviews

Verified Authentic

Item #054


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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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

Customer Reviews

Based on 433 reviews
97%
(419)
2%
(9)
1%
(5)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
D
D.N. (Virginia, United States)

Purchased as a gift for my space nerd spouse. They loved it. Very unique!

M
M.S. (Virginia, United States)

My item arrived on time and was exactly as described! I would absolutely recommend the seller and their shop!

R
R.O.
It's a computer chip

Exactly as advertised. You should have white holders for black chips. Happy with the purchase.

P
P.H. (Virginia, United States)

Very fast delivery and product is as described

C
C.H. (Virginia, United States)

awesome and very interesting for anyone

A
A.F. (Virginia, United States)

I got this as a present for my grandfather who loves NASA and used it as a center piece for a shadowbox.

AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED

We only list verified authentic items. We work with reputable collectors, and regularly consult with our network of scientists and experts.

If we aren't 100% confident, it doesn't make it on our site.

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