Advances in Drill-Based Sampling Technology for Extraterrestrial Bodies

The sampling of extraterrestrial bodies is a critical technology in deep space exploration. Analyzing these samples allows researchers to uncover valuable information about the composition, structure, and evolutionary history of these celestial bodies. Compared to alternative sampling methods such as shoveling and grinding, drilling offers the advantage of obtaining larger sample volumes while preserving sample integrity. Furthermore, it enables sampling at various depths and terrains, making it an essential approach for acquiring samples from extraterrestrial environments. However, drill-based sampling devices are versatile, and their working principles and methods vary across different exploration missions and celestial bodies’ environments. This paper provides a comprehensive investigation into the progress made in drill-based sampling devices for extraterrestrial bodies. It begins by introducing the environmental and geological characteristics of the target celestial bodies, analyzing how these factors impact the structural design and operational parameters of sampling devices. The research then reviews drill-based sampling devices used in previous extraterrestrial exploration missions and examines the latest advancements in drill-based sampling technology. Based on different drilling depths, this study categorizes drill-based sampling devices into seven groups: small drills, pneumatic surface drills, single-rod drills, multi-rod drills, pneumatic deep probes, cable-based drills, and terrestrial ice penetration drills. It also provides an analysis of the operational characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of these seven types of drill-based sampling devices. The paper further outlines the technical difficulties and challenges encountered during the sampling of extraterrestrial bodies and concludes by presenting prospects for the future development of drill-based sampling technology for extraterrestrial bodies.