2026_2027 Lunar / Mars Sample Container

Transferred from Design and Prototype from 2025-2026

Problem to Solve:

When Apollo astronauts landed on the moon, they gathered rocks to be returned to Earth. The rocks were packed in specially designed aluminum boxes (Apollo Lunar Sample Return Case—ALSRC), intended to keep air from getting into the box and contaminate the samples. Unfortunately, all the boxes leaked letting air get into the boxes and the regolith and rock samples.

• For the Artemis missions, astronauts will be picking up samples from the south pole area of the moon This time they would like the samples to return to Earth without contamination by the air.

Objective:

Using resources passed on from Design and Prototype projects such as comments, cad files and designs identified at the D&P FDR, mature the design with additional feedback, possible elements from multiple D&P designs.

• Create one design (may contain elements from multiple designs), with prototypes, 3d models, CAD sheet set.
• Use a parametric CAD program to create 3D models using provided design requirements.
• Create CAD design sheet set with dimensions, all necessary views, general notes and flag notes with completed BOM.
• Design for ease of manufacturing.

Challenge or Mission(s):

• Sealing mechanism for maintaining an internal vacuum and ease of release use in a gloved hand(s) environment.
• Use COTS whenever possible, this includes seals.
• Use only approved aerospace materials in your design
• Must be able to tolerate the temperature changes on the lunar surface

Valuable internal features for keeping rock samples safe

• Identify and develop a procedure of opening the box, placing rock samples ranging from 1.68" Dia. to two baseball sized rocks (and/or an equivalent volume of soil) inside, and closing the box

2025-2026 Design Files will be available from Mike Bennett or Luke Sammon for teams working this project.