Charges like these were used in the Lunar Seismic Profiling Experiment (LSPE) on Apollo 17, to simulate seismic activity in the Moon's surface. The waves resulting from their detonation were measured, yielding information about the composition of the Moon's crust. The charges were remotely detonated by radio following the ascent from the surface of the astronauts in the Lunar Module.
This artifact was used for training, and was not flown. It was transferred to the Smithsonian from NASA - Johnson Space Center 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-Training Devices
Manufacturer
Bendix Corp.
Dimensions
3-D (Each): 12.7 × 21.6 × 71.1cm (5 × 8 1/2 × 28 in.)
Materials
Antenna: Chrome plated metal, synthetic disk at end
Inventory Number
A19750058002
Credit Line
Transferred from the NASA - Johnson Space Center
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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