NanoDrill: 1 Actuator Core Acquisition System, Phase II

We propose to design, build, and test a sample acquisition drill weighing less than 1 kg. The drill uses a novel method of core or powder acquisition, and is suitable for both use by both robotic platforms and astronauts. The core acquisition bit can be used for either a rock core, icy-soil or loose regolith acquisition. The continued development of robust sample acquisition and handling tools is of critical importance to future robotic and human missions to Mars, the Moon, Asteroids, and other planetary bodies. For these missions, consolidated or unconsolidated core samples (as opposed to, say, scooped regolith or collected drill cuttings) are of particular interest. We will conduct testing in the laboratory and in the field to demonstrate the drill's effectiveness both in relevant environments, in relevant operational scenarios. More »