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Surface studies on Surveyor 3 tubing sectionsSections C and E of the unpainted, polished aluminum tubing from the strut of the radar altimeter and Doppler velocity sensor were examined in a transmission electron microscope for micrometeorite damage and ion bombardment. Both sections were contaminated and eroded on one side; it is suggested that these conditions were caused by sandblasting by lunar dust and retrorocket plume contamination during Surveyor 3 landing. Microcraters of different configurations were found on the bright sides of the tubes. Several degrees of violence were involved in the formation of the craters, and the particle size could be responsible for some differences. All micropits found were on the bright areas and data indicate 0.2 hypervelocity impact/sq cm and 2/sq cm for other types of craters. The greatest degree of damage resulted from particle impact and was limited to a maximum depth of 2 microns.
Document ID
19720019102
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Other
Authors
Buvinger, E. A.
(Air Force Systems Command Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, United States)
Date Acquired
August 6, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1972
Publication Information
Publication: NASA, Washington Analysis of Surveyor 3 Mater. and Phot. Returned by Apollo 12
Subject Category
Space Vehicles
Accession Number
72N26752
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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