Scheme design and experiment validation of multiple sampling strategies on weak gravity asteroid

Asteroids hold invaluable scientific information and provide critical insights into the origins and evolution of the solar system, highlighting the significance of asteroid sample-return missions. However, the diverse typology of these asteroids, limited understanding of their surface geology, and extremely weak gravity present substantial challenges, necessitating technologies with high geological adaptability, low reaction forces, and rapid sampling capabilities. In response, six novel and heterogeneous asteroid sampling schemes were developed and rigorously analyzed through comparative studies and test validation, focusing on adaptability, sampling time, reaction force, and sample volume. Results confirm that all six schemes enable rapid sampling under low reaction forces, meeting design objectives. Notably, the rock-breaking and gas-excitation hybrid and the positional kinetic energy-induced directional sampling technique demonstrate superior adaptability, simplicity, reliability, and repeatability, marking them as promising candidates for further research.