Apollo Lunar Module (LM) Pyrotechnic Battery

LM battery contained within a gray metal body having 16 bolts securing a top plate. Overall measurements of 7 inches long, 3 inches tall, and 2 ¾ inches wide. A thin red and blue spooled connecting wire is attached. Two bolt ties and battery positive/negative terminals are at one end with an ID stamp reading: "Exide Missile and Electronics Division, ESB Incorparated, Raleigh, NC. Serial No. 311, Model No. 264." An additional stamp along the body length reads in part: "GAEC Control No. LSC 320-301-3, PYROTECHNIC BATTERY, NAA/S & ID Control No. ME 461-0007-002, NAS 9-1100 (Contract Number), Date of MFR – 1969."

The Lunar Module had two pyrotechnic batteries, one in the Descent Stage and one in the Ascent Stage, which supplied the electrical impulse to ignite explosive charges. Numerous LM systems became operational after these charges were ignited including landing gear, pressurization of the reaction control subsystem (RCS) plus the Ascent / Descent propellant tanks. Additionally, the actual separation between the Ascent and Descent stages during lunar lift-off or an inflight abort required this battery power.