English: OSIRIS-REx / Deutsch: OSIRIS-REx / Español: OSIRIS-REx / Português: OSIRIS-REx / Français: OSIRIS-REx / Italiano: OSIRIS-REx
In the space industry context, OSIRIS-REx (Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, Security, Regolith Explorer) is a NASA asteroid study and sample-return mission. Launched on September 8, 2016, its primary goal is to visit the near-Earth asteroid Bennu, thoroughly study it, and collect samples to bring back to Earth for detailed analysis. This mission aims to provide valuable insights into the early solar system's formation and evolution, organic compounds that could have led to the origin of life on Earth, and potentially how to deflect asteroids that could pose a threat to Earth.
General Description
OSIRIS-REx is an ambitious project designed to advance our understanding of the building blocks of the solar system. By studying Bennu, a carbonaceous asteroid, scientists hope to learn more about the type of materials that were present during the solar system's formation. The spacecraft is equipped with a range of scientific instruments for mapping, photographing, and analyzing the asteroid's surface and composition. It also features a robotic arm, TAGSAM (Touch-And-Go Sample Acquisition Mechanism), designed to collect surface samples.
Application Areas
- Solar System Science: Enhancing knowledge about asteroids' roles in the solar system's origins, especially those containing carbon and other life-forming elements.
- Planetary Defense: Studying potential strategies for asteroid deflection by understanding the physical properties of asteroids like Bennu.
- Sample Return Technology: Developing and testing mechanisms for collecting and returning extraterrestrial samples to Earth.
Risks and Challenges
The mission faces several technical and navigational challenges, including safely approaching and maneuvering around the asteroid, accurately collecting samples, and securely returning them to Earth. The rugged terrain of Bennu also presented unexpected challenges, requiring precise navigation and adjustments to planned sampling techniques.
Summary
OSIRIS-REx represents a significant step forward in our quest to understand the universe and our place within it. By studying asteroid Bennu and returning samples to Earth, this mission not only aims to uncover secrets of our solar system's early days but also to improve our ability to conduct complex space missions, including those that may one day protect Earth from potential asteroid impacts.
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