Small body sampling techniques being developed at Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
- Paper number
IAC-08.A3.5.4
- Author
Mr. Jeffrey Lees, The John Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, United States
- Coauthor
Dr. Nancy Chabot, Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, United States
- Year
2008
- Abstract
At the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU/APL) we have been developing techniques to collect samples of regolith from Near Earth Objects (NEOs), asteroids and comets, in a micro-gravity environment and storing them in a Sample Return Capsule (SRC). These same techniques could also be employed in higher gravity bodies such as planets and moons. We have demonstrated three types of collection methods: 1) surface samples of dust or regolith; 2) bulk material collection; 3) core samples that maintain stratigraphy up to 10 cm deep. The techniques that we have developed are intended for bodies that are believed to have a layer of regolith ranging from a fraction of a millimeter to greater than 100 millimeters. The advantage of the JHU/APL sampling techniques is that the samples are acquired quickly and do not require a prolonged landing or drilling operations. We have also prototyped mechanisms to place the collected samples in prototype storage receptacles and an SRC simulator. The purpose of this work is to demonstrate sample collection, sample storage in a SRC, and ability to close the SRC door for future sample return missions. This paper will discuss the advancements since the 2006 IAC presentation and a review of the most recent results achieved to date.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-08.A3.5.4.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.