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Penetrometer, Lunar Self Recording (LSRP), Apollo, 1970s. Creator: NASA
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Penetrometer, Lunar Self Recording (LSRP), Apollo, 1970s. Creator: NASA
The Self-Recording Penetrometer was a device used on Apollo 15 and 16 to measure some mechanical properties of the lunar soil. When an astronaut pushed on the upper end, the bearing plate or lower cone and shaft would penetrate into the lunar soil while the reference pad stayed on the surface. A retractor cable mechanism running from the reference pad to the upper housing actuated a stylus which would move axially along the recording drum to measure the depth of penetration. The force applied through the extension handle by the astronaut was measured by a coil spring which caused the recording drum to rotate under the stylus by an amount proportional to the force. The LSRP had a maximum penetration depth of 76 cm and the ability to measure penetration force to a maximum of 111 Newtons. Upon return to Earth, the results from these tests were analyzed. This item was used for training and was transferred to the Smithsonian in 1974
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The Penetrometer, Lunar Self Recording (LSRP), captured in this photo print, is a remarkable piece of technology that played a crucial role during the Apollo missions in the 1970s. Created by NASA, this device was specifically designed to measure mechanical properties of the lunar soil. In operation, an astronaut would push on the upper end of the penetrometer, causing the lower cone and shaft to penetrate into the lunar surface while leaving a reference pad on top. A retractor cable mechanism connected to an upper housing would actuate a stylus along a recording drum, measuring the depth of penetration. To gauge force applied by astronauts through an extension handle, a coil spring was utilized. This force caused the recording drum to rotate under the stylus proportionally. With a maximum penetration depth of 76 cm and ability to measure forces up to 111 Newtons, valuable data about lunar soil mechanics could be obtained. After each mission's completion, these recorded results were meticulously analyzed upon return to Earth. This particular item served as training equipment and was subsequently transferred to Smithsonian Institution in 1974 for preservation. This photograph serves as both documentation and testament to humanity's relentless pursuit of knowledge beyond our own planet's boundaries - showcasing how science and ingenuity enabled us to explore new frontiers like never before.
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