Surveyor 3: Bacterium isolated from lunar retrieved television camera

Microbial analysis was the first of several studies of the retrieved camera and was performed immediately after the camera was opened. The emphasis of the analysis was placed upon isolating microorganisms that could be potentially pathogenic for man. Every step in the retrieval of the Surveyor 3 television camera was analyzed for possible contamination sources, including camera contact by the astronauts, ingassing in the lunar and command module during the mission or at splashdown, and handling during quarantine, disassembly, and analysis at the Lunar Receiving Laboratory