Historical Photo of the Month - April 2009

Experimental Assembly and Sterilization Laboratory
Photograph Number 294-1006

JPL's spacecraft sterilization program began in 1961, while early Ranger spacecraft were under development. The intent was not only to prevent contamination of the moon (and later, the planets) but also to protect lunar samples and scientific investigations from contamination by terrestrial microorganisms. Scientists wanted an accurate understanding of any possible extraterrestrial life before it might be returned to Earth. Early in 1965, the NASA Planetary Quarantine Officer (Office of Space Science and Applications) released a draft document, “Interim Requirements for Bioclean Facilities”. That same year the Experimental Assembly and Sterilization Laboratory (EASL) effort was initiated at JPL. A facility was constructed in order to test procedures and equipment for laminar airflow, a positive-pressure gradient, decontamination of all parts and tools entering the facility, and rigorous personnel cleanliness techniques, as specified in the NASA requirements. It was located in Building 233, in what is now an open high bay area.

The photo above shows a test setup in the Laminar Flow Work Area (or Bioclean Room) of the EASL, which simulated a spacecraft hardware assembly facility. A mockup of a spacecraft capsule, light fixtures, other equipment, and people in various locations throughout the room caused turbulence, and disruption of the laminar air flow was observed and recorded. Air samples were collected by Reyniers slit samplers (the gold-colored instruments). During some tests, dozens of large petri dishes were also placed on the floor to collect samples. They were placed in incubators for a period of time, then checked for microbiological contamination.

For more information about the history of JPL, contact the JPL Archives for assistance. [Archival and other sources: 294 Photo Index and Photo Albums; 1965-67 Telephone Directories; JPL Spacecraft Sterilization Technology Program: A Status Report, Technical Report 32-853, compiled by Drummond and Magistrale, December 31 1965; Experimental Assembly and Sterilization Laboratory (EASL) Operations: Phase I, Technical Report 32-941 by Kapell, McDade, and Gavin, April 15, 1966.]