Two Contact Soil Sampling Devices were flown on Apollo 16 only. Their purpose was to collect special samples of the uppermost layers of lunar regolith. One device had a sampling pad covered with beta cloth and the other had a velvet-covered pad. To sample regolith undisturbed by the descent engine on the lunar lander or dirt scattered by human activities, the astronaut cautiously approached a large boulder far away from the lander. The sampler was carefully extended down to the protected surface on the farside of the boulder using the long handle.
This particular unit was not actually flown on the mission. 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
NASA, Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center
Dimensions
3-D: 17.5 × 15.5 × 18cm (6 7/8 × 6 1/8 × 7 1/16 in.)
Materials
Aluminum - box and pad support, Silicon rubber - seal
Adhesives, Beta Cloth or Velvet
Inventory Number
A19750068000
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.