Large amounts of dust collected on the astronauts' space suits during excursions to the lunar surface. The dust, if depositied in the Lunar Module threatened to contaminate the cabins environmental control sytem. Following the Apollo 12 mission, astronaut Alan Bean noted that they had lacked a means to remove the dust from their suits prior to entering the Lunar Module. Subsequent missions were equipped with these large brushes, which were used prior to LM cabin ingress.
This is a training item, and was not flown. It was transferred from NASA to the Smithsonian in 1974.
Display Status
This object is on display in Human Spaceflight at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
EQUIPMENT-Lunar
Manufacturer
NASA Johnson Space Center
Dimensions
Overall: 5 in. wide x 1 ft. 3/4 in. long x 1 1/2 in. tall (12.7 x 32.39 x 3.81cm)
Materials
Bristles: Nylon
Handle: Aluminum
Head: Stainless Steel
Inventory Number
A19750030000
Credit Line
Transferred from 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.