Tongs were used to pick up individual rocks smaller than 10 cm. These so-called "short" tongs were used on the early Apollo missions (11-14) and were carried by the astronauts on fasteners attached to the waist of the lunar space suit. Later missions used longer, 32-inch tongs. This artifact was used during simulations and training. It was transferred from NASA to the Smithsonian in 1971.
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 Manned Spacecraft Center
Dimensions
Overall: 26 3/8 in. tall x 3 15/16 in.wide, 0.3 lb. (67 x 10cm, 0.1kg)
Other (of T-handle): 3 15/16in. (10cm)
Materials
Overall: Aluminum
Tines: Aluminum
Inventory Number
A19820076000
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.