Lockheed Martin Recovery Specialists Levi Hanish and Michael Kaye, in a meticulous procedure, have removed the lid from the sample return canister. Credit: NASA/Robert Markowiz
In a significant development, NASA has detected the presence of black dust and debris on the avionics deck of the OSIRIS-REx science canister during the initial lid removal process. The said canister, originating from the OSIRIS-REx sample return capsule, arrived at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston on September 25, following its landing in the Utah desert on September 24.
The Johnson Space Center boasts the world’s largest repository of astromaterials and is now poised to conduct a highly intricate disassembly of the Touch and Go Sample Acquisition Mechanism (TAGSAM) in order to access the core sample contained within. These operations are currently underway within a state-of-the-art laboratory specially designed for the OSIRIS-REx mission. The removal of the aluminum lid was executed within a controlled environment, facilitated by a glovebox designed for handling large hardware components.
Upon the separation of the TAGSAM from the canister, it will be securely placed in a sealed transfer container to maintain a nitrogen-rich environment for approximately two hours. This critical step provides the team with the necessary window of time to insert the TAGSAM into another specialized glovebox, effectively expediting the disassembly process. A paramount emphasis has been placed on precision, ensuring that the delicate hardware removal process does not compromise the integrity of the sample contained within.
With a proficient team of experts collaborating closely, scientists and engineers at the Johnson Space Center are diligently working to complete the intricate disassembly process. The eagerly awaited moment when the sample will be unveiled to the world is scheduled for a special live broadcast event on October 11.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about OSIRIS-REx Sample Disassembly
What is the OSIRIS-REx canister and its significance?
The OSIRIS-REx canister is a crucial component of NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission, designed to collect and return a sample from an asteroid. Its significance lies in its role in obtaining pristine asteroid material for scientific study.
Why was black dust and debris found on the canister’s avionics deck?
The presence of black dust and debris on the canister’s avionics deck was unexpected and is being investigated. It may have been picked up during the sample collection process or could be a result of the spacecraft’s journey through space.
What is the Touch and Go Sample Acquisition Mechanism (TAGSAM)?
The TAGSAM is the mechanism on OSIRIS-REx responsible for collecting samples from the asteroid’s surface. It plays a critical role in acquiring the asteroid material for the mission.
Why is the disassembly of TAGSAM necessary?
Disassembling the TAGSAM is necessary to access the bulk sample within it. This process is vital for securely extracting the asteroid material and preserving its integrity for scientific analysis.
How is the disassembly process being conducted?
The disassembly process is taking place in a specialized laboratory at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, with meticulous care to avoid any contamination. A glovebox designed for handling large hardware components is being used to ensure a controlled environment.
What precautions are being taken to protect the sample during disassembly?
To protect the sample, the TAGSAM is placed in a sealed transfer container that maintains a nitrogen-rich environment for up to two hours. This safeguards the sample from potential exposure to Earth’s atmosphere.
When will the sample be revealed to the world?
The sample’s unveiling to the world is scheduled for a special live broadcast event on October 11. Scientists and engineers at the Johnson Space Center will collaborate to ensure a precise and delicate hardware removal process during this event.
6 comments
wow, osiris rex is doin cool stuff, cnt w8 2 c da asteroid sample!
Johnson Space Center, biggest stash of space stuff, gotta check it out!
Black dust? Whazzat mean? Mayb da asteroid had some dusty spots?
TAGSAM sounds cool, but how dey gonna get da sample out safely?
I hope the delicate hardware removal goes smoothly, we need that asteroid treasure!
Can’t wait for the live broadcast on oct 11, so exciteddddd!