Saturn V Instrument Unit: Meaning (information, definition, explanation, facts)

The Instrument Unit is a ring shaped structure fitted to the top of the Saturn V third stage (S-IVB) and the Saturn IB second stage (S-IVB). It was immediately below the SLA panels that contain the Lunar Module. The Instrument Unit contains the guidance system for the Saturn V rocket. Some of the electronics contained within the Instrument Unit are a digital computer, analog flight control computer, emergency detection system , inertial guidance platform, control accelerometers and control rate gyros. NASA's subcontractor for the Instrument Unit was International Business Machines (IBM).

Instrument Unit Specifications

Diameter: 21.7 ft (6.6 m)
Height: 3 ft (914 mm)
Weight empty: 500 lb (227 kg)
Weight assembled:4,400 lb (1996 kg)