The Apollo Guidance Computer, Part Two: David Scott

Recorded: June 10, 1982

This is a two-part talk that chronicles the design of the Apollo Guidance Computer (AGC), the custom-made space borne navigation system that first guided men to the Moon in July of 1969. Part I covers the design of the AGC and features Apollo Guidance Computer lead designer Eldon Hall. Part II tells the AGC story from the astronaut’s point of view, with Apollo 9 and 15 pilot commander David Scott.

Part Two
Astronaut David Scott recounts his time at MIT, the Naval test pilot school, and early experiences with the AGC as a part of the Apollo training program. He discusses the reliability of the system, the training and development process, as well as his time flying in the Gemini program with Neil Armstrong.

Scott describes the use of the DSKY interface and its language. With two character 'words' acting as commands, the DSKY language used a verb-noun format, and Scott covers some of the specific two-digit words, as well as how they were used in-flight. He describes the methods for control and guidance, including decisions made to allow for astronaut control over 'fly-by-wire'. He outlines some of the early limitations of both the ACG and the landing module itself, as well as detailing the process of using the ACG to touch down on the lunar surface.

Part One:    • The Apollo Guidance Computer, Part On...  

Catalog Number: 102651598