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 enentering the Lunar Module. Subsequent missions were equipped with these large brushes, which were used prior to LM cabin ingress.

This brush was used during training and was transferred from NASA to the Museum 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

Dimensions

Overall: 12 1/2 in. tall x 5 in. wide x 1 1/2 in. deep (31.8 x 12.7 x 3.8cm)
Other: 12 1/2 in. long (31.8cm)
Other (of bristles): 5 in. wide x 1 1/2 in. deep (12.7 x 3.8cm)

Materials

Handle: Aluminum
Head: Stainless Steel
Bristles: Nylon

Inventory Number

A19750064000

Credit Line

Transferred from NASA, Johnson Space Center.

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
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