Camera Craftsman - March/April 1959

This issue of Camera Craftsman volume 5, number 2 focuses on technological advances in camera repair and optical instrumentation. The main feature explores the Airborne Optical Instrumentation Unit at Holloman Air Force Base, a specialized team designing miniaturized cameras for aerospace and ballistic missions. The article reveals the engineering challenges of creating an ultra-compact camera weighing less than 8 pounds, designed to fit within a cone-shaped nose section of an Aerobee rocket to photograph internal mechanisms during flight. The magnesium housing provides critical protection upon ground impact. This issue also showcases recent graduates from the National Camera Repair School (NCRS) and their growing expertise in the field. An innovative automatic focus system for cameras is discussed in detail. The Reports from the Craftsmen section highlights the professional successes of school alumni building thriving repair businesses. Shop Shots presents practical workshop tools including the CircuitRacer for electrical circuit testing and precision binocular magnifiers. The magazine announces the establishment of the Society of Photo-Technologists, a professional association created to strengthen cooperation and knowledge-sharing among camera repair technicians. Technical reference books for professional library development are also recommended.