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The Apollo Lunar Surface Experiments Package (ALSEP) was a set of experiments that were placed on the Moon by the Apollo astronauts. The ALSEP received electrical power from heat produced by a radioactive substance. The power generator is called an RTG (Radioisotope Thermal Generator). The radioactive material used for fuel by the RTG was stored outside the Lunar Module, mounted in a casing like this one prior to transfer to the RTG.

This artifact was transferred to the Smithsonian in 1974 from NASA - Johnson Space Center.

Display Status

This object is on display in Destination Moon at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.

Destination Moon

Object Details

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

EQUIPMENT-Lunar

Manufacturer

NASA, Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center

Dimensions

3-D: 73.3 × 30.5cm (2 ft. 4 7/8 in. × 1 ft.)

Materials

Non-Magnetic White Metal
Kapton
Electrical Components
Paint
Plastic
Synthetic Fabric
Reflective Tape

Inventory Number

A19750027000

Credit Line

Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonian’s Terms of Use.