Tongs were used for collecting small rocks (less than 6-10 in. in diameter). Their reach compensated for the difficulty in bending over posed by the inflexibility of the astronauts' lunar space suits. The 32-inch tongs (which replaced a shorter model used on Apollo 11 - 14) were stored in the large tool carrier on the lunar rover.
This artifact was used for training and was transferred from NASA to the National Air and Space Museum in 1976.
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 (remarks): 79.4 × 10.2 × 12.7cm, 0.5kg (2 ft. 7 1/4 in. × 4 in. × 5 in., 1.1lb.)
Materials
aluminum (handle), stainless steel (tines)
Inventory Number
A19770755000
Credit Line
Transferred from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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