Pilot balloon marine theodolite, made by Keuffel & Esser Co., Hoboken, 1943 for U.S. Navy.
Entry/Object ID
2010.007.0017
Description
Pilot balloon marine theodolite, Aero-1938-USN 345-43. Made by Keuffel & Esser Co., Hoboken, 1943 for United States Navy. Serial number 83352.
Gray painted metal case, carrying handle on top; with instrument, gimbal mount (with wood storage spacer & chain) and two storage bases (one is a trivet base.) Not present is any tripod or counterweight. Maker's plate on door with serial number; printed instruction plate attached inside door. Carrying handle on top
Also known as a "Pibal" [PI from 'pilot'; BAL from 'balloon'] theodolite or bubble sextant. A World War II military item made under contract by K&E who had their general offices and main factories in Hoboken at this time. Name of item does not appear on object, but a model name and number as well as K&E name, patent number and serial number do appear on the object.
Under the eyepiece cup is a lever for the bubble and positions marked "in" and "out."
Acquisition
Accession
2010.007
Source or Donor
Lukacs, Claire
Acquisition Method
Gift
Credit Line
Museum Collections. Gift of a friend of the Museum.
