Mobile Quarantine Facility
This Mobile Quarantine Facility (MQF) was one of four built by NASA for astronauts returning from the moon to prevent the spread of lunar contagions. This MQF was used by Apollo 11 astronauts immediately after their return to Earth. They remained in it for 88 hours while the MQF was flown to the Johnson Space Center in Houston. They were allowed to emerge once scientists were sure they were not infected with "moon germs."
Artifact location in the Museum
The Mobile Quarantine Facility is on the left side in the James S. McDonnell Space Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. More details about the Mobile Quarantine Facility are located on its label which is on the main floor in the Space Hangar. Find it for yourself in our Google Expedition!
Why were the Apollo 11 astronauts isolated from contact with other people after returning from the moon?
The astronauts were isolated to prevent the unlikely spread of lunar contagions, or “moon germs”. To view video of the astronauts in the Mobile Quarantine Unit click here.
How was quarantine assured on the Mobile Quarantine Facility?
Quarantine was assured by keeping the air pressure inside lower than the pressure outside and by filtering the air vented from the facility.
The Mobile Quarantine Facility was flown from an aircraft carrier to the Johnson Space Center in Houston. What was the name of the aircraft carrier?
The USS Hornet was the aircraft carrier that the MQF was flown from.
Mobile Quarantine Facility Interior
A converted Airstream trailer, the MQF contained living and sleeping quarters, a kitchen, and a bathroom.
Mobile Quarantine Facility Air Vents
Quarantine was assured by keeping the air pressure inside lower than the pressure outside and by filtering the air vented from the facility.