The Contingency Soil Sampler was a device which allowed the astronauts to quickly take a soil sample soon after they stepped 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 unit was among the items used by the Union Carbide Company operated Y-12 plant to prepare the Apollo Lunar Sample Return Container system for NASA. It was transferred to the Smithsonian in 1974 for display at the Y-12 facility in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, and accessioned in 1977.
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
A19770253000
Credit Line
Transferred from NASA
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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