Robotic Acquisition Techniques for Ocean World Exploration - Drilling and Sample Handling

Explore robotic acquisition techniques in this 44-minute lecture from the Keck Institute for Space Studies short course "Ocean World Microhabitats - Targeting and Life Detection Techniques." Delve into Kris Zacny's analysis from Honeybee Robotics, covering challenges in drilling and sample handling for space exploration. Examine mid-range and ultra-deep drilling technologies, including the TRIDEN drill and kilometer-deep drilling systems. Learn about innovative sample handling methods for fines and cores, with a focus on pneumatic approaches and drill-integrated instruments. Discover the DrACO Sampler designed for the Dragonfly mission to Titan, and understand how its architecture leverages the moon's thick atmosphere. Gain insights into self-sterilization techniques for large drills, essential for maintaining scientific integrity in space exploration.

Intro
Honeybee Robotics Altadena CA
Challenges of drilling and sample handling
MidRange (1+ meter) drilling: TRIDEN drill
UltraDeep (kilometers) drilling
Sample handling: Fines
Pneumatic approach can be coupled with a drill
Case study: DrACO Sampler on Dragonfly mission
DIACO architecture takes advantage of Titan thick atmosphere
Sample handling: Cores
Drill integrated instruments
For Large Drill: Self sterilization