Preliminary Sample Findings from the Apollo Missions and Post-Apollo Findings

Abstract

The preliminary examination team made up of NASA personnel and visiting scientists were responsible for examining the Apollo 11 lunar samples, preparing them for detailed study and allocating samples for examination by other scientists around the world. The PET employed stereo-microscopic examination of the samples in addition to a polarizing microscope, and X-ray powder defraction, as well as thin-section study of two of crystalline rocks. The following four basic groups were determined to make up the samples returned from the Apollo 11 mission.

• 1. Type A – fine-grained vesicular crystalline igneous rock

• 2. Type B – medium-grained vuggy crystalline igneous rock

• 3. Type C – breccia consisting of small fragments of gray rocks and fine material

• 4. Type D – fines