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Inert training mockup of the Apollo 17 Lunar Seismic Profiling Experiment (LSPE) Explosive Package, measuring approximately 7.5˝ x 5˝ x 7.5˝, featuring three pull rings, switch with "Resafe/Arm/Safe" settings, and extendable receiving antenna. The unit is identified as "6" and "EP," with part numbers on the bottom: "2364705-5 X12, SN13." In. In very good to fine condition, with light wear and soiling.
The LSPE was part of the Apollo 17 lunar surface science package deployed by astronauts in 1972 to investigate the moon’s subsurface structure. Unlike earlier seismic experiments that used mortars or lunar module impacts, the LSPE employed eight individually placed explosive charges that were remotely detonated after the crew’s departure, generating controlled seismic waves recorded by an array of geophones to probe the upper several kilometers of the lunar crust.
Though inert and intended for astronaut/ground crew training, the mockup faithfully represents the mechanisms and design used to ensure safe deployment and operation of the experiment’s seismic charges on the lunar surface. Originates from the estate of scientist Earl Eugene Kilmer, who authored the paper 'HNS/Teflon Explosive Charges for the Apollo 17 Seismic Experiment, LSPE,' at the Naval Ordnance Laboratory in 1973.
