Continuing in our endeavors to gain knowledge of near earth objects, or NEO’s we propose a scientifically valuable experiment, requiring micro gravity that is simple yet feasible to construct. The Asteroid Anchoring Team will design and test several drilling devices that can penetrate and essentially attach to the surface of an asteroid; examining a fuel conservative method. Learning from previous research and experimentation the team will innovatively maneuver drilling mechanisms into various surfaces potentially simulating and asteroids’ scarred, tumultuous and harsh environment. The approach is to persistently propel the drills consistently until they are anchored and drilling into the surface. As opposed to applying a constant force the drill will experience oscillating movement with a vertical push each time it bounces back from the surface. Clearing and anchoring to the surface of the asteroid would allow for important data transferring, observational, or mining instrumentation to be firmly rooted and perform its indicated task and any innovations in this area a true milestones. The KC-135 provides a unique microgravity test bed to test developed devices that can anchor onto a ~zero gravity NEO regolith of variable density, depth, and consistency. Since little is known concerning the mechanics of particulate mediums, and even less about particulate mediums in microgravity this type of experimentation could provide note worthy data regarding future drilling or anchoring techniques. Our team will provide experimental data to validate asteroid anchoring and other possible mining activities.


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