Countdown to the momentous OSIRIS-REx sample return: NASA’s mission readies to deliver asteroid samples to Earth in under 24 hours
In a recent briefing on September 22, OSIRIS-REx mission officials reported that the spacecraft’s journey was proceeding flawlessly.
OSIRIS-REx sample return proceeding flawlessly
Two critical manoeuvres, performed on September 10 and 17, fine-tuned its trajectory, ensuring a precise landing in the Utah desert.
The mission’s climax is scheduled for September 24, with a pivotal decision to separate the capsule from the main spacecraft. If the spaceship is deemed in excellent condition and on course, the separation will occur at 6:42 a.m. Eastern, followed by a strategic manoeuvre to avoid Earth and pursue an extended mission.
Recovery and contingency planning
Upon re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere at 10:42 a.m. Eastern off the California coast, recovery teams will swiftly retrieve the capsule. Despite the team’s confidence, they have contingencies for unexpected challenges, including potential asteroid sample exposure.
Unveiling the asteroid secrets
The capsule contains approximately 250 grams of material collected during OSIRIS-REx’s daring “touch-and-go” manoeuvre at asteroid Bennu in October 2020.
While a precise estimate remains elusive, the mission surpasses its 60-gram return requirement. If all proceeds smoothly, the samples will be unveiled to the public at NASA’s Johnson Space Center on October 11, though a potential government shutdown could impact the schedule. Nonetheless, the samples will remain safe, awaiting their analysis, regardless of delays.
In closing, patience is advised, recognising that these precious samples have endured for billions of years, and a slight delay in their study will help their remarkable scientific value.
NASA’s extraordinary achievement
As we approach the culmination of the OSIRIS-REx mission, NASA stands on the threshold of an extraordinary achievement.
In less than 24 hours, the spacecraft will return precious asteroid samples to Earth. This momentous endeavour holds the potential to unlock the secrets of our celestial origins and provide invaluable insights into the formation of our solar system.
The mission team’s meticulous planning, precise manoeuvres, and unwavering dedication have brought us to this pivotal juncture.
These samples, collected from the distant asteroid Bennu, hold the keys to unravelling mysteries that have captivated scientists and space enthusiasts for generations.
