Integrated sample return capsule

US6467731B1 · kind B1 · utility

Assignee

• Lockheed Martin Corporation · US

Inventors

• Edward Harris · Pittsburgh, US
• Daniel R. Morgenthaler · Sargans, CH
• Kenneth P. Romeo · Littleton, US
• Michael A. Sasdelli · Uxbridge, US
• Janine M. Thornton · Littleton, US
• Michael Thornton · Littleton, US
• William H. Willcockson · Morrison, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 22, 2000
• Grant date: Oct 22, 2002
• Expiry date: Mar 22, 2020

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B64G1/62
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

An integrated sample return capsule for use in returning materials to Earth from space, such as core samples from other celestial bodies and experiments from orbiting platforms. The sample return capsule incorporates thermal protection, structural integrity and impact mitigation into a single system capable of safely and securely returning the materials without requiring decelerating parachutes. In one embodiment, the integrated sample return capsule includes a forward facing heat shield and a back shell attached to the rear of the heat shield. The heat shield and the back shell define an interior enclosure. The back shell includes an access, such as a door or a removable panel, there through to the interior enclosure. Materials to be returned may be sealed in a sample containment vault, and the sealed vault may be placed into the interior enclosure through the access. An optional support deck may be provided within the interior enclosure for receiving the sample containment vault and supporting the vault within the interior enclosure.