The Geological History of the Moon from the Perspective of Unopened Apollo Samples

In preparation for future lunar missions anticipated in the 2020s and beyond it is important that we maximize the science derived from samples returned by the Apollo Program. This can be done by applying cutting-edge analytical techniques to Apollo samples to address both longstanding and new scientific questions. NASA’s Apollo sample collection includes a subset of samples that were specially curated in 1972 and have remained untouched and unstudied since then. LPL researchers are participating in a new lunar mission to study these previously untouched samples. Our goal is not only to better understand the origin and evolution of the Moon but to also address some outstanding questions regarding the long-term storage and handling of extraterrestrial materials.