The Apollo astronauts were provided a small rake that could be used to gather and collect pebbles larger than 1 cm in diameter from the lunar regolith. The rake head (this object) was attached to a handle, which while on the lunar surface was designed to attach to a standard extension handle. Lunar rakes were employed on Apollo 15-17, from July 1971 to December 1972. This artifact was used for training.
This was transferred to the Museum in 1978 from NASA.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
United States of America
EQUIPMENT-Lunar
NASA - Johnson Space Center
Approximate: 11 9/16 in. long x 11 9/16 in. wide x 4 1/8 in. tall, 3.3 lb. (29.4 x 29.4 x 10.4cm, 1.5kg)
Other (tine separation): 3/8 in. (1cm)
Other (handle length): 8 3/4 in. long (22.3cm)
Other (tines): 1/16 in. diameter (0.16cm)
Handle, basket sidewalls: aluminum
Tines: stainless steel
A19781497000
Transferred from the NASA - Johnson Space Center
National Air and Space Museum
Usage conditions apply
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