Flown Lunar Module data file clip carried to the lunar surface during the Apollo 12 mission, measuring 1.75″ x 2.25″ x 1″, with etched part numbers: "P/N SEB3210094-302, S/N 1097 Assy." The aluminum checklist clip, used inside the Lunar Module 'Intrepid,' has a 1-inch square white Velcro patch on the front retaining embedded lunar soil material. Includes a handwritten letter of provenance signed by Apollo 12 Commander Charles Conrad, in full: "This ‘Data File Clip,' part number SEB 32100094-302, S/N 1097, was flown to the lunar surface aboard the Lunar Module Intrepid during the flight of Apollo XII. It was used to secure checklists and logged over 31 hours on the moon’s surface during November 19-20, 1969. The clamp is listed on page 41 of the Apollo XII stowage list. It has been in my personal collection since I returned from the moon." Also includes a one-page typed document on Conrad's personal letterhead, documenting a microscopic examination of the clip, outlining the material seen in the Velcro, including frayed spacesuit materials and dust grains "completely consistent with a lunar regolith origin." In fine condition.
Apollo XII was the first lunar landing to perform two extensive surface explorations where Conrad and Bean accumulated a large amount of lunar dust on their space suits and flight equipment. During their 31-hour surface stay, this clip was exposed to lunar dust carried into the LM by the crew. The included analysis of the embedded lunar material describes observed plagioclase feldspar, blackish extremely angular fragmented agglutinate-like grains, and greenish-yellow grains being olivine.
