National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC
Past Exhibition
The ALSRC was an aluminum box with a triple seal. It was used on Apollo lunar landing missions to preserve a lunar-like vacuum around the samples and protect them from the shock environment of the Earth return flight. An aluminum mesh liner helped absorb the shock impacts. Prior to flight, each box was loaded with sample container bags and other sample containment devices. On the Moon, while samples were being loaded, the seals were protected by a Teflon film and a cloth cover which were removed just prior to closing the box. Two ALSRC's were used on each mission.
This Apollo Lunar Sample Return Container (ALSRC) was used on both Apollo 12 and 16. NASA transferred this ALSRC to the Smithsonian Institution in 1977.
Display Status
This object is on display in Destination Moon at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
EQUIPMENT-Lunar
Manufacturer
Union Carbide, Nuclear Division
Dimensions
Overall: 8 in. high x 19 in. wide x 11 3/4 in. deep, 15.9lb. (20.3 x 48.3 x 29.8cm, 7.2kg)
Materials
7075 AA aluminum case
2024 aluminum alloy mesh lining
Rubber (Silicone)
Stainless Steel
Paint
Inventory Number
A19772508000
Credit Line
Transferred from the NASA - Johnson Space Center
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.
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