The Contingency Soil Sampler was a device intended to enable astronauts to quickly take a soil sample soon after stepping onto the lunar surface. The sample was taken near the Lunar Module and stored for ascent to insure that some lunar soil would be returned to Earth in the event of an emergency. A contingency sampler was taken on Apollo 11, 12, 14, and 15. This particular unit was not flown on a mission but was used for training.
NASA transferred it to the Smithsonian in December 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
Union Carbide, Nuclear Division
Dimensions
Overall: 1 in. tall x 37 in. long, 2.6 lb. (2.5 x 93.98cm, 1.2kg)
Other (Bag): 4 in. diameter (10.16cm)
Materials
Aluminum handle, Teflon bag
Inventory Number
A19750595000
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.