Case Study: NASA achieves virtually leak-proof helium seals for Curiosity’s SAM with SS&C Blue Prism

Eaton C-seals are 'out of this world' on NASA Rover bound for Mars

NASA needed ultra-low-leakage seals for the Sample Analysis at Mars (SAM) instrument on the Curiosity rover because even minuscule helium leaks could jeopardize the mission’s scientific objectives during the 354‑million‑mile trip and two years of surface operations. SS&C Blue Prism was engaged to provide specially manufactured "C" seals to meet SAM’s stringent high‑pressure helium and vacuum‑sealing requirements.

SS&C Blue Prism implemented a modified "C" seal manufacturing process using multi‑layer metallic plating (including gold) and Six Sigma‑driven design/testing improvements to produce a virtually leak‑proof part. The seals were installed at multiple critical locations in SAM, passed NASA’s leak‑detection tests and achieved the extremely low leak rates required—preserving SAM’s helium supply and ensuring the instrument could meet mission science goals.

NASA