NASA’s OSIRIS-REx probe has achieved a groundbreaking feat by collecting an unprecedented amount of material from the asteroid Bennu. Initially aiming for a mere 2.12 ounces (60 grams) of sample, the spacecraft surpassed all expectations by gathering a total of 4.29 ounces (121.6 grams) of material from the asteroid.
This remarkable success was confirmed when scientists discovered that not only had the probe collected 2.48 ounces (70.3 grams) of material from the outside of the canister, but an additional 1.81 ounces (51.2 grams) was found inside the container. This significant achievement far exceeds the mission’s original goal and sets a new record for asteroid sample collection.
The collected samples are now under examination by scientists, who believe they contain valuable insights into the formation of the solar system and planetary development. A quarter of the Bennu sample will remain with the OSIRIS-REx research team, while the majority will be preserved for further study by scientists worldwide and future researchers.
This historic mission marks the first time NASA has successfully retrieved asteroid material for analysis, representing a major milestone in space exploration. With this achievement under its belt, the OSIRIS-REx probe is now setting its sights on its next mission – targeting the asteroid Apophis and continuing its mission to explore the mysteries of the cosmos.
Stay tuned for more updates on this groundbreaking mission as NASA delves deeper into the secrets of our universe.
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