Lunar Seismic Profiling Experiment

Description

The purpose of the lunar seismic profiling experiment (S-203) was to acquire data on the physical properties of the lunar near-surface materials. Specific objectives included measuring the lunar seismic signals produced by detonation of explosive charges on the surface, monitoring natural seismic activity resulting from moonquakes or meteorite impacts, recording the seismic signals resulting from the ascent of the spent LM ascent stage. This experiment yeilded detailed information on lunar geologic characteristics to depths of 3 km. The equipment consisted of four geophones, marker flags, a geophone module with a marker flag, an electronics package in the ALSEP central station, a transmitter, an antenna, and eight explosive packages. The explosive package major conponents were a receiving antenna, a receiver, an explosive train, a signal processor, and a firing pulse generator. The crew deployed the geophones and the geophone module marked with flags and then photographed them during EVA 1. The antennas and electronics package were also deployed and connected to the ALSEP central station. The explosive packages were deployed at designated sites during the lunar traverses.