In the reactor, bubbles are suppressed by pressurizing the liquid flowing through it.

A novel device that acquires and manipulates samples that can be operated from low mass platforms including rovers or landers is disclosed herein. The device is designed to probe the sampled media for optimized sampling, prepare the surface of rocks, acquire cores and powdered cuttings, and deliver the sample to a selected location for analysis and/or caching. The disclosed invention is called a SPAHD (Sample Preparation, Acquisition, Handling and Delivery) device. The device uses the Ultrasonic/Sonic Driller/Corer (USDC) and takes advantage of its ability to operate under a low axial force, does not require lubricants or sharp bits and operational at extreme environments. These advantages allow overcoming the major limitations of current planetary sampling that are caused by conventional drills and the use of the SPAHD invention enables the automation of its use.

To remove air from liquid in continuous flow, a vacuum is created over a maximum surface area of the fluid and the fluid is continuously returned to the reservoir. The removed air or gas is expelled through the vacuum pump.

The system helps to maintain safety and accuracy. *For information regarding this Technical Support Package please contact Larry Viterna at cto@grc.nasa.gov