The Little Dipper is designed for use in interplanetary expeditions. Astronauts can easily gather large soil samples. However, if there is a small or delicate specimen that requires precise handling, astronauts’ unwieldy gloves become a hindrance. With 3D printing size limitations in mind, the Little Dipper is an appropriate solution to this problem: the user simply slips his finger into the hoop (with a 1.5” hollow diameter, it should accommodate a gloved finger) with the extruding portion pointed outwards and under his finger, and then scoops up the targeted object. With the extended part under the finger, this design makes it easy for the astronaut to apply the necessary amount of force to penetrate the soil or other substrate present.

Download File