Payload Systems includes technologies that enable the extraction of samples from the environment (coring/abrading), transfer of those samples to a sample-processing unit (robotic arm controls), and processing of the samples for delivery to the onboard science instruments (rock crushing and sample distribution). Planetary Protection addresses biological contamination control technologies for meeting the planetary protection requirements for MSL. This includes the deployment of a rapid validation method for enumerating spores (4 hours instead of 3 days) and cleaning/maintenance methods for achieving organic cleanliness (10-9 g/cm2) of the MSL sample handling/analysis chain.
Point of Contact: Gabriel Udomkesmalee
