Minolta Spotmeter Model M

Used with the Hasselblad 70mm Space Cameras

This Minolta Spotmeter Model M was flown in space during the Space Shuttle Program on STS-94, and likely flown on many other flights as well. The meter is Class I flight hardware and NASA Part ID # SED33102470-302 s/n 1019 is stamped onto the rear of the meter case. It’s also stenciled in white ink/paint??, which is hidden under the long blue Velcro strip on the rear of the meter. Meter was manufactured by Minolta around 1980 or 1981 under contract to NASA.

One or two Minolta Spot Meters were flown on each Space Shuttle flight until NASA switched to digital cameras exclusively. The spotmeters were for use with the Hasselblad 70mm Space Cameras. Minolta Spotmeters were also used by astronauts on the Russian Space Station MIR and the International Space Station.

The blue Velcro on the meter was used to secure the meter to the Shuttle bulkhead when not in use. See the photo showing the third generation meter (not this meter) attached to the bulkhead next to the flight deck window.

A label affixed to the front of the meter lists the steps an astronaut would take to determine exposure using the meter.

The meter is fully functional with the addition of a battery (not included). Included is a PDF of the meter’s manual. The Minolta Model M Spotmeter replaced the Minolta Space Meter used during Apollo, Skylab, and early Shuttle Programs. Spotmeter M use began sometime after STS-5. Meter was purchased as NASA Surplus.