Penetration Dynamics of an Asteroid Sampling System Inspired by Japanese Sword Technology

Abstract

In this study, we proposed a tether-type system for the surface sampling of primeval astronomical bodies in future asteroid explorations. In particular, we experimentally investigated the collision dynamics and penetration of the sampling apparatus. The experiment adopted the simple method of dropping the corer from a height and considering gravity and the kinetic energy imparted on impact. The masses and initial velocities of the corer were widely varied. These intrusion tests were performed on lightweight concrete that emulated an asteroid surface. From the results, we could relate the penetration depth to the kinetic conditions of the corer. In addition, to achieve the sharpness and plasticity demand of the corer tip, we borrowed the techniques of traditional Japanese swordsmithing in fabricating the corer samples.