This paper describes a versatile sample transfer mechanism that allows a prepared sample to be moved rapidly (in seconds) 16 in. under ultrahigh vacuum conditions without unwanted contamination of the sample. Some of the unique features of this motion assembly are: isolation of the internal volume of the bellows from the mating system; precise translational positioning along the axis of translation; 360° continuous rotation of the sample mount; rapid sample changing; and sample temperature range from 77 K to temperatures ≳1500 K.