Mars Sample Return Sample Handling Technology Development

The Decadal Survey Strategy for Planetary Science and Astrobiology 2023-2032 recommended the development of a plan for effective end-to-end processing of samples returned from Mars. Key technologies were explored, traded, and conceptualized for fully contained sample handling of Mars samples within pristine isolators housed in a high biocontainment Sample Receiving Facility (SRF). These technologies include processes and hardware for both solid sample and head-gas sample removal from the Mars 2020 Returned Sample Tube Assemblies (RSTA), as well as a Secondary Outer Containment Case (SOCC) to provide additional prolonged protection of the sealed sample tubes during processing and storage. Hardware designs and end-to-end storyboards were developed. Full-scale mockups of the tooling were prototyped to evaluate hardware flow. Coupon testing was performed to demonstrate sealing, puncturing, and cutting processes, as well as characterize key design parameters.