The Globus INK: a mechanical navigation computer for Soviet spaceflight

The Soviet space program utilized unique controls and instruments for their spacecraft, such as the Globus navigation instrument on the Soyuz spacecraft. The Globus, an electromechanical analog computer, featured a rotating globe to indicate the spacecraft’s position above Earth. Some cosmonauts found limitations in the Globus, wanting it removed from the control panel due to its inability to handle orbit changes or receive external navigational information. Despite its limitations, the Globus was a remarkable piece of machinery providing a detailed view of the spacecraft’s position. The intricate system of gears and cams in the Globus showcased impressive analog computation capabilities.

https://www.righto.com/2023/01/inside-globus-ink-mechanical-navigation.html

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