--- In BRHSlist@y..., Don Zinnecker <dzinnecker@j...> wrote:
On page 76 the top signal targets for
> both tracks (westbound) have a bracket sticking off to the side of
the
> target signal with something attached to it. What is that? What
> function does it serve? Thanks. - Don
Don: It is a lunar signal target that is not in service yet. When
lit, it provided a "Restricting" signal indication that allowed a
train to proceed into the control point or interlocking, and follow
another train into the block beyond the control point. This aspect
was particularly useful between Chicago and Aurora where trains
followed closely, but was used also between Aurora and Galesburg, and
perhaps other locations.
Prior to the use of the lunar targets, many control points had
additional signals at the leaving end of the control point (see the
top of page 67 at Earlville). When CTC was installed, these signals
were removed, and at most locations, the lunars were installed (look
at pages 52-55, pre and post CTC at Buda).
At Montgomery, since the photo you are referring to was taken in
1963, these lunars were probably placed in service in 1964 when CTC
was installed west of Aurora.
Glen Haug
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