Regolith Sampler Concept

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The system, weighing approximately 0.4 kg without motors (0.7 kg with), is designed for attachment to a robotic arm. Its auger allows for retrieval of rocks and regolith up to 10 cm deep beneath the lunar surface. The auger transports the regolith to the top of a chute, where rods filter out rocks larger than 1.8 cm diameter. Smaller rocks fall into a sorter/conveyor below, while loose regolith passes through flute gaps. As the conveyor screw turns, it pushes rocks and regolith toward the end of the channel; regolith exits first, followed by rocks at a separate location. A second robotic arm positions the sample container beneath for collection, adjusting position to differentiate layers of regolith and rocks. (Revised description, 59 words.)