Apollo Lunar Surface Rake

A large 39.5" x 12" x 12" folding aluminum and steel rake manufactured by Grumman for the Apollo lunar landing missions. The rake was used on Apollo 15-17 and was carried on the aft pallet assembly of the Lunar Rover.

It bears an adhered metal label stating: "GRUMMAN AIRCRAFT ENG. CORP 144511". Outer shaft features holes allowing the wire scoop head to be adjusted to four different lengths. It has age related wear, possibly from use.

This prototype build of the rake was likely used during training for the extended Apollo "J" missions of Apollo 15, 16, and 17. These missions were designed for longer stays on the moon in order to further explore lunar surface science. These flights were equipped with the Lunar Roving Vehicle, which allowed astronauts to travel further from the Lunar Module and collect a wider variety of geological samples from different types of lunar terrain.