Organic Sample Monitors in the form of clean, thin aluminum mesh were carried inside the Apollo Sample Return Containers on the Apollo 12, 14, 15, 16, and 17 missions. After the mission, organic compound contamination of the mesh could be compared to contamination of the lunar samples to indicate if the source was the astronauts and spacecraft during the mission or of lunar origin. The mesh was inserted inside cylindrical Teflon bags.
This example (with mesh not inserted) is unflown. It was transferred to the Smithsonian in 1974.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
EQUIPMENT-Lunar
Manufacturer
Union Carbide Corp.
Dimensions
Overall (Sample Bag): 30.48 x 19.05 x 5.08cm (1ft x 7 1/2in. x 2in.)
Overall (Storage Bag): 28.58 x 20.32cm (11 1/4in. x 8in.)
Materials
Mylar, Teflon, Aluminum, Paper, Adhesive, Ink
Inventory Number
A19770248000
Credit Line
Transferred by the National Aeronautics and Space
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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