Project: Restoring the Dykstra-Flex

We have been involved in an ongoing restoration project for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to bring back to life the Dykstra-Flex motion control camera system. The Dykstra-Flex was the ground breaking camera system used to create the memorable special visual effects seen the in original Star Wars trilogy, along with many other features. Here, we are recreating the “C” Channel drop-down that allowed the camera to fly through the Death Star trenches. The new section is seen on top of the original “Trojan Helmet” pan tilt head. We have been involved in much of the mechanical restoration of the Dykstra-Flex.