Sample Acquisition from Hypothesized Surfaces – SCOOP-E

INSTITUTION

University of Texas – Tyler (UTT)

CLASS

Platinum Class (2025 – 2026)

STUDENT TEAM

ACADEMIC GUIDANCE

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

This project presents the design, analysis, and testing of SCOOP-E, a lightweight mechanical sampling system for a possible future surface mission to asteroid 16 Psyche. The rack-and-pinion mechanism, driven by a linear actuator and stepper motor, collects and retains surface material while prioritizing simplicity and low mass. Engineering analysis showed low operational loads (~1.29 lbf) and high factors of safety, while prototype testing with regolith simulants demonstrated effective sampling of particles as small as 50 µm. Overall, the system meets design requirements and provides a viable foundation for future planetary sampling mechanisms.

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This work was created in partial fulfillment of the University of Texas – Tyler Capstone Course “MENG 4215.” The work is a result of the Psyche Student Collaborations component of NASA’s Psyche Mission (https://psyche.ssl.berkeley.edu). “Psyche: A Journey to a Metal World” [Contract number NNM16AA09C] is part of the NASA Discovery Program mission to solar system targets. Trade names and trademarks of ASU and NASA are used in this work for identification only. Their usage does not constitute an official endorsement, either expressed or implied, by Arizona State University or National Aeronautics and Space Administration. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of ASU or NASA.