Jupiter's moon Io was observed in 1979 in detail for the first time during NASA's Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 missions.

These spacecraft provided the first close-up images and scientific data of Io and the other Galilean moons. The Voyager missions revealed Io's intense volcanic activity, with plumes of volcanic material erupting above its surface.

These discoveries revolutionised our understanding of Io and solidified its reputation as one of the most geologically active bodies in the solar system.

Reflecting on that moment, a scientist with NASA's Voyager mission&nbsp;Alan Cummings reportedly recalled, "I thought the Caltech students had pulled a prank. But no, it was real."&nbsp;

"It gives me chills, even just now."

Caltech is known for its groundbreaking research across various disciplines.

The university manages the NASA&nbsp;Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL).&nbsp;

Despite initial plans for a two-planet exploration, the Voyager spacecraft surpassed expectations, enduring for nearly half a century and traveling billions of miles away from Earth and into the area between stars - interstellar space.

Cummings said, "These are the only spacecraft that have been there."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/subduction-zone-stirring-beneath-gibraltar-strait-research-warns-it-may-invade-atlantic-ocean-700928">Subduction zone stirring beneath Gibraltar Strait, research warns it may ‘invade’ Atlantic ocean</a>

However, recent technical challenges, including a persistent issue with Voyager 1's flight data system, have raised concerns among space enthusiasts.

The Voyager missions not only unveiled unprecedented views of Jupiter, its tumultuous atmosphere, and its intriguing moons but many other intriguing images as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Beyond Jupiter, the spacecraft ventured to Saturn, revealing intricate details of its rings and discovering intriguing moons like Titan. There are upcoming missions such as Dragonfly, set to explore Titan's&nbsp;surface.

Subsequent encounters with Uranus and Neptune also unveiled the peculiarities of their moons, including Miranda's striking resemblance to the Death Star and Triton's icy geysers amidst frigid temperatures.

<section>
Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chicago-river-dyed-green-to-celebrate-st-patricks-day-701048">Chicago River dyed green to celebrate St Patrick's Day</a>

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Despite challenges and dwindling resources, the Voyager craft continue their interstellar journey, providing invaluable data on the cosmos beyond our solar system. As Linda Spilker, Voyager’s project scientist, said, "The science data that the Voyagers are returning gets more valuable the farther away from the Sun they go.&nbsp;So we are definitely interested in keeping as many science instruments operating as long as possible."&nbsp;
</section>

(With inputs from agencies)

Jupiter's moon Io was observed in 1979 in detail for the first time during NASA's Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 missions. These spacecraft provided the first close-up images and scientific data of Io and the other Galilean moons.

Jupiter's moon Io was observed in 1979 in detail for the first time during NASA's Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 missions. These spacecraft provided the first close-up images and scientific data of Io and the other Galilean moons. The Voyager missions revealed Io's intense volcanic activity, with plumes of volcanic material erupting above its surface. These discoveries revolutionised our understanding of Io and solidified its reputation as one of the most geologically active bodies in the solar system. Reflecting on that moment, a scientist with NASA's Voyager mission Alan Cummings reportedly recalled, "I thought the Caltech students had pulled a prank. But no, it was real." "It gives me chills, even just now." Caltech is known for its groundbreaking research across various disciplines. The university manages the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). Despite initial plans for a two-planet exploration, the Voyager spacecraft surpassed expectations, enduring for nearly half a century and traveling billions of miles away from Earth and into the area between stars - interstellar space. Cummings said, "These are the only spacecraft that have been there." Also Read | Subduction zone stirring beneath Gibraltar Strait, research warns it may ‘invade’ Atlantic ocean However, recent technical challenges, including a persistent issue with Voyager 1's flight data system, have raised concerns among space enthusiasts. The Voyager missions not only unveiled unprecedented views of Jupiter, its tumultuous atmosphere, and its intriguing moons but many other intriguing images as well. Also Read | Passive smoking exposure nearly doubles stroke risk, new study says Beyond Jupiter, the spacecraft ventured to Saturn, revealing intricate details of its rings and discovering intriguing moons like Titan. There are upcoming missions such as Dragonfly, set to explore Titan's surface. Subsequent encounters with Uranus and Neptune also unveiled the peculiarities of their moons, including Miranda's striking resemblance to the Death Star and Triton's icy geysers amidst frigid temperatures. Watch | Chicago River dyed green to celebrate St Patrick's Day × Despite challenges and dwindling resources, the Voyager craft continue their interstellar journey, providing invaluable data on the cosmos beyond our solar system. As Linda Spilker, Voyager’s project scientist, said, "The science data that the Voyagers are returning gets more valuable the farther away from the Sun they go. So we are definitely interested in keeping as many science instruments operating as long as possible." (With inputs from agencies)

‘It gives me chills’: Voyager mission’s first images of Io reveal volcanic fury

A close call unfolded in low-Earth orbit early Wednesday (Feb 28) as a US&nbsp;NASA spacecraft and a Russian satellite approached dangerously close to each other, narrowly averting a potential collision, NASA said.

Prior to the anticipated close pass, NASA issued a warning, indicating that both the space agency and the US&nbsp;Department of Defense were closely monitoring the trajectory of the Thermosphere Ionosphere Mesosphere Energetics and Dynamics (TIMED) mission spacecraft from NASA and Russia's Cosmos 2221 satellite.

<h2>Closest pass details</h2>

The non-maneuverable spacecraft were projected to reach their closest point at approximately 1:30 am&nbsp;EST at an altitude of around 373 miles (600 km), according to NASA's press release.

NASA later confirmed that the TIMED spacecraft and the Russian satellite successfully navigated past each other in orbit around 1:34 am&nbsp;EST, with the TIMED mission continuing to operate as usual.

Although a collision was not expected, NASA stressed on&nbsp;the significant risk of debris generation had the two spacecraft collided.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/fiery-red-supermassive-black-hole-found-when-universe-was-in-infancy-694718">Also read |&nbsp;Scientists find oldest fiery-red supermassive black hole from universe’s infancy</a>

While this encounter marked their closest approach based on current orbit predictions, the two spacecraft are slated to encounter each other again. Nevertheless, they are anticipated to gradually diverge in altitude over time.

NASA and the Department of Defense remain vigilant, continually monitoring the evolving situation to ensure the safety of assets in space.

The TIMED science mission, a core focus of NASA, delves into understanding the sun's impact on Earth's atmosphere. Amidst scientific activities, concerns mount over the proliferation of space debris, posing risks of potential collisions with operational satellites and spacecraft.

Also watch |&nbsp;NASA Chief says Aliens exist

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The escalating presence of space debris, comprising remnants of rockets and defunct satellites, poses a growing threat in low-Earth orbit. Scientists have warned of the potential for catastrophic collisions as space traffic intensifies. In a recent incident in 2022, the International Space Station narrowly evaded debris from a Russian satellite, Cosmos 1408.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A close call unfolded in low-Earth orbit early Wednesday (Feb 28) as a US NASA spacecraft and a Russian satellite approached dangerously close to each other, narrowly averting a potential collision, NASA said.

A close call unfolded in low-Earth orbit early Wednesday (Feb 28) as a US NASA spacecraft and a Russian satellite approached dangerously close to each other, narrowly averting a potential collision, NASA said. Prior to the anticipated close pass, NASA issued a warning, indicating that both the space agency and the US Department of Defense were closely monitoring the trajectory of the Thermosphere Ionosphere Mesosphere Energetics and Dynamics (TIMED) mission spacecraft from NASA and Russia's Cosmos 2221 satellite. Closest pass details The non-maneuverable spacecraft were projected to reach their closest point at approximately 1:30 am EST at an altitude of around 373 miles (600 km), according to NASA's press release. NASA later confirmed that the TIMED spacecraft and the Russian satellite successfully navigated past each other in orbit around 1:34 am EST, with the TIMED mission continuing to operate as usual. Although a collision was not expected, NASA stressed on the significant risk of debris generation had the two spacecraft collided. Also read | Scientists find oldest fiery-red supermassive black hole from universe’s infancy While this encounter marked their closest approach based on current orbit predictions, the two spacecraft are slated to encounter each other again. Nevertheless, they are anticipated to gradually diverge in altitude over time. NASA and the Department of Defense remain vigilant, continually monitoring the evolving situation to ensure the safety of assets in space. The TIMED science mission, a core focus of NASA, delves into understanding the sun's impact on Earth's atmosphere. Amidst scientific activities, concerns mount over the proliferation of space debris, posing risks of potential collisions with operational satellites and spacecraft. Also watch | NASA Chief says Aliens exist The escalating presence of space debris, comprising remnants of rockets and defunct satellites, poses a growing threat in low-Earth orbit. Scientists have warned of the potential for catastrophic collisions as space traffic intensifies. In a recent incident in 2022, the International Space Station narrowly evaded debris from a Russian satellite, Cosmos 1408. (With inputs from agencies)

Close call: US spacecraft and Russian satellite avoid major collision

The small W- spacecraft of Varda Space Industries , which landed at the Utah Test and Training Range on February 21, had a camera installed that captured its trip back to Earth.&nbsp;

The camera, which was fitted inside the 90 cm- (3 ft)-wide capsule, captured the way in which the spacecraft re-entered the atmosphere of the Earth.&nbsp;

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Here's a video of our capsule ripping through the atmosphere at mach 25, no renders, raw footage: <a href="https://t.co/ZFWzdjBwad">pic.twitter.com/ZFWzdjBwad</a>
— Varda Space Industries (@VardaSpace) <a href="https://twitter.com/VardaSpace/status/1762855190292525409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Video captures eerie sounds of re-entry into Earth's atmosphere</h2>

The re-entry was made in steps, from separating the satellite bus in low Earth orbit (LEO) to making a fiery re-entry into&nbsp;Earth's atmosphere, to the deployment of a parachute and the bouncy landing.

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When the 5-minute video ends, a pair of legs appear wearing muddy shoes to gather the parachute and then retrieve the capsule. The video is also very unique because it contains sounds of reentry and landing.

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Speaking in an interview, Varda CEO Will Bruey said, "We manufacture pharmaceuticals in space. Removing gravity allows us to make medicines you otherwise couldn't on Earth. Gravity is kind of like a parameter. If you put a temperature knob on an oven, you create a whole world of new recipes and new food you can create. Similarly, if you can change gravity, you can also change the chemical process for drug formulations."

W-1 was integrated with a Rocket Lab Photon spacecraft (the upper stage of the Electron rocket) for eight months, which provided the capsule with power, propulsion, and navigation.

Watch:&nbsp;Gaganyaan Mission: PM Modi introduces astronauts for India's first manned space mission

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"This mission was a phenomenal feat and impressive display of teamwork between the Rocket Lab and Varda teams to develop a unique and highly capable spacecraft, successfully demonstrate in-space manufacturing and bring back the capsule and finished pharmaceutical product – all on the first attempt," said Rocketlab CEO Peter Beck, in a press release.

"The success of this reentry mission will also inform our work on developing a reentry capsule for Neutron to potentially enable human spaceflight missions," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The small W- spacecraft of Varda Space Industries , which landed at the Utah Test and Training Range on February 21, had a camera installed that captured its trip back to Earth.

The small W- spacecraft of Varda Space Industries , which landed at the Utah Test and Training Range on February 21, had a camera installed that captured its trip back to Earth. The camera, which was fitted inside the 90 cm- (3 ft)-wide capsule, captured the way in which the spacecraft re-entered the atmosphere of the Earth. Here's a video of our capsule ripping through the atmosphere at mach 25, no renders, raw footage: pic.twitter.com/ZFWzdjBwad — Varda Space Industries (@VardaSpace) February 28, 2024 × Video captures eerie sounds of re-entry into Earth's atmosphere The re-entry was made in steps, from separating the satellite bus in low Earth orbit (LEO) to making a fiery re-entry into Earth's atmosphere, to the deployment of a parachute and the bouncy landing. Also Read: Intelligent aliens can also not beat humans in space travel: Study When the 5-minute video ends, a pair of legs appear wearing muddy shoes to gather the parachute and then retrieve the capsule. The video is also very unique because it contains sounds of reentry and landing. × Speaking in an interview, Varda CEO Will Bruey said, "We manufacture pharmaceuticals in space. Removing gravity allows us to make medicines you otherwise couldn't on Earth. Gravity is kind of like a parameter. If you put a temperature knob on an oven, you create a whole world of new recipes and new food you can create. Similarly, if you can change gravity, you can also change the chemical process for drug formulations." W-1 was integrated with a Rocket Lab Photon spacecraft (the upper stage of the Electron rocket) for eight months, which provided the capsule with power, propulsion, and navigation. Watch: Gaganyaan Mission: PM Modi introduces astronauts for India's first manned space mission "This mission was a phenomenal feat and impressive display of teamwork between the Rocket Lab and Varda teams to develop a unique and highly capable spacecraft, successfully demonstrate in-space manufacturing and bring back the capsule and finished pharmaceutical product – all on the first attempt," said Rocketlab CEO Peter Beck, in a press release. "The success of this reentry mission will also inform our work on developing a reentry capsule for Neutron to potentially enable human spaceflight missions," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Spacecraft captures its own re-entry into Earth from space

Japan has successfully launched a spacecraft designed to inspect and potentially remove man-made space debris from around the Earth, said a statement from Astroscale Japan on Monday. 
 
The Active Debris Removal has been launched by Astroscale-Japan (ADRAS-J). As per an AFP news agency report, it will rendezvous with and examine a Japanese H2A rocket remnant that has been in space for 15 years. The H2A rocket body, about the size of a bus, was launched by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in 2009. Its precise location and orbital position are not known.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-debris-cloud-has-been-growing-in-a-distant-star-system-due-to-a-massive-collision-between-two-exoplanets-691648">Debris cloud growing in a distant star system after massive collision between two exoplanets</a>

<h2>Debris removal</h2>

Launched from New Zealand, the ADRAS-J spacecraft has already made contact and is ready to begin operations, said project manager Eijiro Atarashi in a statement.

Using observation data from Earth, the estimated location of the H2A rocket body will be determined, and ADRAS-J will approach it "from a safe distance" to gather images and assess its condition and movements.

Selected by JAXA for its debris removal programme, ADRAS-J, as per Astroscale is the first spacecraft of its kind, which aims to remove large debris of Japanese origin in collaboration with private companies.

<h2>Space debris</h2>

As per the European Space Agency (ESA) estimates, there are around one million pieces of debris larger than a centimetre in orbit. These pieces of debris, which are big enough to "disable a spacecraft" pose a big threat.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-successfully-launches-new-h3-rocket-following-setback-last-year-691091">Japan successfully launches new H3 rocket following setback last year</a>

The build-up of space debris, including used satellites and rocket parts, has been a growing concern since the space age began. Proposed solutions include using lasers to push debris into new orbits and Astroscale's space "tow-truck," which employs a magnet to collect and move out-of-service satellites.

The ADRAS-J mission follows Japan's successful launch of its new flagship H3 rocket on Saturday, after years of delays and previous failed attempts. Additionally, Japan achieved a successful, albeit slightly off-kilter, unmanned probe landing on the Moon last month, making it the fifth country to accomplish a "soft" lunar landing.

(With inputs from agencies)

Japan has successfully launched a spacecraft designed to inspect and potentially remove man-made space debris from around the Earth, said a statement from Astroscale Japan on Monday.

Japan has successfully launched a spacecraft designed to inspect and potentially remove man-made space debris from around the Earth, said a statement from Astroscale Japan on Monday. The Active Debris Removal has been launched by Astroscale-Japan (ADRAS-J). As per an AFP news agency report, it will rendezvous with and examine a Japanese H2A rocket remnant that has been in space for 15 years. The H2A rocket body, about the size of a bus, was launched by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in 2009. Its precise location and orbital position are not known. Also read | Debris cloud growing in a distant star system after massive collision between two exoplanets Debris removal Launched from New Zealand, the ADRAS-J spacecraft has already made contact and is ready to begin operations, said project manager Eijiro Atarashi in a statement. Using observation data from Earth, the estimated location of the H2A rocket body will be determined, and ADRAS-J will approach it "from a safe distance" to gather images and assess its condition and movements. Selected by JAXA for its debris removal programme, ADRAS-J, as per Astroscale is the first spacecraft of its kind, which aims to remove large debris of Japanese origin in collaboration with private companies. Space debris As per the European Space Agency (ESA) estimates, there are around one million pieces of debris larger than a centimetre in orbit. These pieces of debris, which are big enough to "disable a spacecraft" pose a big threat. Also read | Japan successfully launches new H3 rocket following setback last year The build-up of space debris, including used satellites and rocket parts, has been a growing concern since the space age began. Proposed solutions include using lasers to push debris into new orbits and Astroscale's space "tow-truck," which employs a magnet to collect and move out-of-service satellites. The ADRAS-J mission follows Japan's successful launch of its new flagship H3 rocket on Saturday, after years of delays and previous failed attempts. Additionally, Japan achieved a successful, albeit slightly off-kilter, unmanned probe landing on the Moon last month, making it the fifth country to accomplish a "soft" lunar landing. (With inputs from agencies)

Japan launches debris removal spacecraft to tackle space junk

NASA and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) are considering launching the LignoSat probe - the world's first wooden satellite into space, in an attempt to make spaceflight operations sustainable.

NASA and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) are considering launching the LignoSat probe - the world's first wooden satellite into space, in an attempt to make spaceflight operations sustainable. The tiny satellite has been built by the scientists at Kyoto University in collaboration with Sumitomo Forestry, a logging company. Scientists believe that the satellite's biodegradable nature may help preserve the Earth's environment. Currently, our stratosphere is inundated with metallic particles from spacecraft, including satellites, which are majorly constructed out of aluminium. “All the satellites which re-enter the Earth’s atmosphere burn and create tiny alumina particles, which will float in the upper atmosphere for many years. Eventually, it will affect the environment of the Eart," said Takao Doi, a Japanese astronaut and aerospace engineer at Kyoto University. While the long term affects of these metals is unknown at this stage, experts are of the view that it could damage Earth's fragile ozone layer. Keeping the environment in mind, scientists have looked for alternatives with the researchers at the Japanese university stumbling upon wood which doesn't burn or rot in the vacuum of space. However, it incinerates quickly into fine ash upon reentry into Earth's atmosphere, thereby minimising damage to the environment. Watch: Gaganyaan: India's first mission to send astronauts to space A reimagined future To choose the right kind of wood, the scientists went through myriad timber profiles before settling on wood from magnolia trees which proved to be most robust. After successfully testing their wood samples aboard the International Space Station (ISS) earlier this year, the scientists believe the test satellite is fit for launch. It is expected that the LignoSat probe which is approximately the size of a coffee mug, will operate in space for at least six months before it is allowed to enter the upper atmosphere. Also read | Scientists find a 'unique' way to keep spacecraft safer than they ever were If the launch of LignoSat is indeed successful and it performs adequately in space, it could open the door for the use of wood as a construction material for more satellites. While sci-fi movies and shows projected a future with aluminum rockets and steel skyscrapers; slick high-speed shuttles and glassy facades, it looks like we may have to re-imagine how it looks like. (With inputs from agencies)

World's 1st wooden satellite to be launched soon. Why is it significant?

NASA’s Lucy spacecraft, known for visiting asteroids is set to get fired up in space on January 31 for its next trip to explore Trojan asteroids. Lucy earlier performed a flyby around asteroid Dinky and discovered its twin, and is now getting ready for its new voyage to unexplored cosmic spaces.

Lucy is slated to visit two main belt asteroids as well as six Jupiter Trojans - asteroids that share Jupiter’s orbit around the Sun. Its firing-off on Wednesday will be the first time since its launch in August 2021.&nbsp;

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The firing of Lucy’s main engines will see the spacecraft burn through around half of its onboard fuel, as per NASA. This will be followed by a second and much larger manoeuvre, which is slated for Saturday (Feb 3).

<h2>NASA’s Lucy to fire off for its future voyages</h2>

Lucy will be fired off during two operations to change its velocity for further lined-up missions. The aim is to change its velocity by around 2,000 miles per hour (3,217 kilometres per hour).

The spacecraft had changed its manoeuvres earlier as well, but they were not as significant as the upcoming two manoeuvres.

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Over the next week, Lucy will complete two deep space maneuvers to change the spacecraft’s velocity by about 2,000 mph! In Dec., Lucy will use the Earth's gravity for a 2nd time to slingshot through the main asteroid belt &amp; continue on its journey. <a href="https://t.co/Zs9B0lFn8X">https://t.co/Zs9B0lFn8X</a> <a href="https://t.co/8W3S8tJuna">pic.twitter.com/8W3S8tJuna</a>
— NASA Goddard (@NASAGoddard) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAGoddard/status/1752455690415677819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Following these manoeuvres, the next major milestone for Lucy will be a flyby of Earth in December 2024, at which time the spacecraft will get a second gravity assist from our planet that will hopefully slingshot it onto a new trajectory. Lucy will come as close as 230 miles (370 kilometres) to the Earth during this flyby.

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The sequence of manoeuvres planned for 2024 will alter the spacecraft's trajectory away from its present solar orbit, which closely traverses the primary asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. This adjustment helped it encounter the tiny asteroid Dinkinesh, or 'Dinky', on 1 November 2023. Notably, Lucy's exploration revealed that Dinky is, in fact, a binary asteroid system, effectively a double asteroid.

After this, Lucy’s other mission will be to track around Jupiter Trojans. These Trojans are arranged in two loose groups, with one slightly ahead of the gas giant, the Greek camp, and another behind it, the Trojan camp.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/do-moons-exist-outside-our-solar-systems-researchers-argue-on-discovery-of-exomoons-685419">Do moons exist outside our solar systems? Researchers argue on discovery of exomoons</a>

Lucy will visit the Greek camp of Trojan asteroids first, setting its sights on the asteroid Eurybates and its satellite or 'moonlet' Queta in August 2027, as per NASA.

After this, the spacecraft will fly past another four Trojan asteroids and three more moonlets, eventually making a final visit to Earth in 2031 before the Lucy mission draws to a close in 2033.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

NASA’s Lucy spacecraft, known for visiting asteroids is set to get fired up in space on January 31 for its next trip to explore Trojan asteroids. Lucy earlier performed a flyby around asteroid Dinky and discovered its twin, and is now getting ready for its new voyage to unexplored cosmic spaces.

NASA’s Lucy spacecraft, known for visiting asteroids is set to get fired up in space on January 31 for its next trip to explore Trojan asteroids. Lucy earlier performed a flyby around asteroid Dinky and discovered its twin, and is now getting ready for its new voyage to unexplored cosmic spaces. Lucy is slated to visit two main belt asteroids as well as six Jupiter Trojans - asteroids that share Jupiter’s orbit around the Sun. Its firing-off on Wednesday will be the first time since its launch in August 2021. Also Read | A bacteria-murdering virus may come in handy to kill superbugs The firing of Lucy’s main engines will see the spacecraft burn through around half of its onboard fuel, as per NASA. This will be followed by a second and much larger manoeuvre, which is slated for Saturday (Feb 3). NASA’s Lucy to fire off for its future voyages Lucy will be fired off during two operations to change its velocity for further lined-up missions. The aim is to change its velocity by around 2,000 miles per hour (3,217 kilometres per hour). The spacecraft had changed its manoeuvres earlier as well, but they were not as significant as the upcoming two manoeuvres. Over the next week, Lucy will complete two deep space maneuvers to change the spacecraft’s velocity by about 2,000 mph! In Dec., Lucy will use the Earth's gravity for a 2nd time to slingshot through the main asteroid belt & continue on its journey. https://t.co/Zs9B0lFn8X pic.twitter.com/8W3S8tJuna — NASA Goddard (@NASAGoddard) January 30, 2024 × Following these manoeuvres, the next major milestone for Lucy will be a flyby of Earth in December 2024, at which time the spacecraft will get a second gravity assist from our planet that will hopefully slingshot it onto a new trajectory. Lucy will come as close as 230 miles (370 kilometres) to the Earth during this flyby. Also Read | Scientists create AI-powered robot that reads braille at breakneck speed The sequence of manoeuvres planned for 2024 will alter the spacecraft's trajectory away from its present solar orbit, which closely traverses the primary asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. This adjustment helped it encounter the tiny asteroid Dinkinesh, or 'Dinky', on 1 November 2023. Notably, Lucy's exploration revealed that Dinky is, in fact, a binary asteroid system, effectively a double asteroid. After this, Lucy’s other mission will be to track around Jupiter Trojans. These Trojans are arranged in two loose groups, with one slightly ahead of the gas giant, the Greek camp, and another behind it, the Trojan camp. Also Read | Do moons exist outside our solar systems? Researchers argue on discovery of exomoons Lucy will visit the Greek camp of Trojan asteroids first, setting its sights on the asteroid Eurybates and its satellite or 'moonlet' Queta in August 2027, as per NASA. After this, the spacecraft will fly past another four Trojan asteroids and three more moonlets, eventually making a final visit to Earth in 2031 before the Lucy mission draws to a close in 2033. (With inputs from agencies)

Fired up! NASA’s Lucy spacecraft starts main engines in space for the first time since its launch

Sierra Space, a leading aerospace company, has made headlines by intentionally destroying its first full-scale prototype of a space station module in preparation for upcoming space missions, potentially slated for 2030 and beyond.

The testing, conducted at NASA's Marshall Space Center in Alabama, involved explosive trials, with all previous tests involving smaller scale models.

Sierra Space disclosed that it intentionally destroyed a full-scale prototype of its space station module through explosive tests at NASA's Marshall Space Center.

Watch the video here:

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The full-scale UBP test unit reached 77 psi before it burst, which well exceeds (+27%) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NASA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NASA</a>’s recommended level of 60.8 psi (maximum operating pressure of 15.2 psi multiplied by a safety factor of four). 
 
Full video: <a href="https://t.co/5XumopCb0H">https://t.co/5XumopCb0H</a><a href="https://twitter.com/NASA_Marshall?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASA_Marshall</a> <a href="https://t.co/WO4YyPUA05">pic.twitter.com/WO4YyPUA05</a>
— Sierra Space (@SierraSpaceCo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SierraSpaceCo/status/1749429668820721879?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The company shared a video on X showcasing the test, with the prototype reaching 77 psi before bursting, surpassing NASA's recommended level of 60.8 psi by 27 per cent.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breakthrough-chinese-scientists-invent-new-porous-ceramic-that-can-be-used-in-making-hypersonic-aircraft-682833">Also read |&nbsp;Breakthrough: Chinese scientists invent new porous ceramic that can be used in making hypersonic aircraft</a>

<h2>Inflatable module design and orbital reef project</h2>

Sierra Space's inflatable module design incorporates soft goods technology from ILC Dover, using&nbsp;Vectran straps. This innovative design will be deployed on the Orbital Reef space station, a collaborative project between Sierra Space and Blue Origin.

The Orbital Reef initiative is one of several concepts funded by NASA to succeed the aging International Space Station (ISS), which is expected to be retired around 2030.

Sierra Space emphasises that the dimensions of its modules are nearly equivalent to that of an average family home. Measuring three stories tall (20.5 feet or 6.2 metres) with a diameter of 27 feet (8.3 metres), Sierra Space uses&nbsp;cubic feet as a unit of measurement due to the microgravity environment, allowing for optimal use of space within the module.

Also watch |&nbsp;Storm Isha hits travel and power services across UK

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One of the notable features of Sierra Space's expandable space station module technology is its scalability and flexibility. The design accommodates various launch vehicle fairing sizes, making it adaptable to both existing and planned launch vehicles.

Sierra Space's successful testing of the full-scale space station module prototype marks a significant step forward in the development of innovative aerospace solutions.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sierra Space, a leading aerospace company, has made headlines by intentionally destroying its first full-scale prototype of a space station module in preparation for upcoming space missions, potentially slated for 2030 and beyond.

Sierra Space, a leading aerospace company, has made headlines by intentionally destroying its first full-scale prototype of a space station module in preparation for upcoming space missions, potentially slated for 2030 and beyond. The testing, conducted at NASA's Marshall Space Center in Alabama, involved explosive trials, with all previous tests involving smaller scale models. Sierra Space disclosed that it intentionally destroyed a full-scale prototype of its space station module through explosive tests at NASA's Marshall Space Center. Watch the video here: The full-scale UBP test unit reached 77 psi before it burst, which well exceeds (+27%) #NASA’s recommended level of 60.8 psi (maximum operating pressure of 15.2 psi multiplied by a safety factor of four). Full video: https://t.co/5XumopCb0H@NASA_Marshall pic.twitter.com/WO4YyPUA05 — Sierra Space (@SierraSpaceCo) January 22, 2024 × The company shared a video on X showcasing the test, with the prototype reaching 77 psi before bursting, surpassing NASA's recommended level of 60.8 psi by 27 per cent. Also read | Breakthrough: Chinese scientists invent new porous ceramic that can be used in making hypersonic aircraft Inflatable module design and orbital reef project Sierra Space's inflatable module design incorporates soft goods technology from ILC Dover, using Vectran straps. This innovative design will be deployed on the Orbital Reef space station, a collaborative project between Sierra Space and Blue Origin. The Orbital Reef initiative is one of several concepts funded by NASA to succeed the aging International Space Station (ISS), which is expected to be retired around 2030. Sierra Space emphasises that the dimensions of its modules are nearly equivalent to that of an average family home. Measuring three stories tall (20.5 feet or 6.2 metres) with a diameter of 27 feet (8.3 metres), Sierra Space uses cubic feet as a unit of measurement due to the microgravity environment, allowing for optimal use of space within the module. Also watch | Storm Isha hits travel and power services across UK One of the notable features of Sierra Space's expandable space station module technology is its scalability and flexibility. The design accommodates various launch vehicle fairing sizes, making it adaptable to both existing and planned launch vehicles. Sierra Space's successful testing of the full-scale space station module prototype marks a significant step forward in the development of innovative aerospace solutions. (With inputs from agencies)

This company deliberately blew up its own space station structure. WATCH and know why

The scientists, in their latest discovery, found that when there is a collision between pieces of space debris, electric signals are released by them which help&nbsp;in tracking small debris that is littering the orbit of our planet and can prove beneficial in saving both spacecraft and satellites. 
 
The researchers at the University of Michigan have now proposed a new approach which can help spacecraft operators and satellites detect small pieces of debris which are orbiting Earth. 
 
“Right now, we detect space debris by looking for objects that reflect light or radar signals. The smaller the objects get, the harder it becomes to get sunlight or radar signals strong enough to detect them from the ground,” explained Nilton Renno, who is professor of climate and space sciences and engineering and aerospace engineering and the university team's principal investigator.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/iss-discovers-tomato-which-remained-lost-in-space-for-eight-months-667098">A tomato lost for 8 months on space station has finally been found, and it is a big deal</a>

Till now, they have been able to track objects which are much larger than a cricket ball and this applies to less than one per cent of the nearly 170 million pieces of trash leftover from old satellites, spacewalk and rocket launches. 
 
The researchers said that the new method can be used for detecting debris which is smaller than one millimetre in diameter.

<h2>How dangerous is trash in space?</h2>

The trash in space is dangerous in many ways. A piece of space debris, which is the size of a plum, will have a speed of around 35,000 kilometres per hour at typical orbit and hence, its momentum will be equal to a highway car crash. 
 
In such scenarios, a small piece of debris will carry the capacity to destroy satellites. Even very small and fine pieces can cause damage to the spacecraft. 
 
Generally, pieces of debris in space collide with each other which also becomes an issue because after collision they fragment into smaller and smaller pieces.

Watch:&nbsp;Gaganyaan: India's first mission to send astronauts to space

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Such collisions can turn disastrous and they can also give the scientists an opportunity to track space junk. When the collision of debris takes place and it gets fragmented&nbsp;into smaller pieces, some of it gets vapourised into a charged gas due to the heat from the impact. 
 
The collision creates bursts of lightning-like energy. As per the most recent simulations by the team, when the collision of two pieces of aluminium takes place at typical orbital speeds, they release an electrical burst, which is detected on Earth using a high-quality radio receiver. 
 
This eventually helps the scientists track the space junk and send alerts to keep the spacecraft in space safe and undamaged.

(With inputs from agencies)

The scientists, in their latest discovery, found that when there is a collision between pieces of space debris, electric signals are released by them which help in tracking small debris that is littering the orbit of our planet and can prove beneficial in saving both spacecraft and satellites.

The scientists, in their latest discovery, found that when there is a collision between pieces of space debris, electric signals are released by them which help in tracking small debris that is littering the orbit of our planet and can prove beneficial in saving both spacecraft and satellites. The researchers at the University of Michigan have now proposed a new approach which can help spacecraft operators and satellites detect small pieces of debris which are orbiting Earth. “Right now, we detect space debris by looking for objects that reflect light or radar signals. The smaller the objects get, the harder it becomes to get sunlight or radar signals strong enough to detect them from the ground,” explained Nilton Renno, who is professor of climate and space sciences and engineering and aerospace engineering and the university team's principal investigator. Also read: A tomato lost for 8 months on space station has finally been found, and it is a big deal Till now, they have been able to track objects which are much larger than a cricket ball and this applies to less than one per cent of the nearly 170 million pieces of trash leftover from old satellites, spacewalk and rocket launches. The researchers said that the new method can be used for detecting debris which is smaller than one millimetre in diameter. How dangerous is trash in space? The trash in space is dangerous in many ways. A piece of space debris, which is the size of a plum, will have a speed of around 35,000 kilometres per hour at typical orbit and hence, its momentum will be equal to a highway car crash. In such scenarios, a small piece of debris will carry the capacity to destroy satellites. Even very small and fine pieces can cause damage to the spacecraft. Generally, pieces of debris in space collide with each other which also becomes an issue because after collision they fragment into smaller and smaller pieces. Watch: Gaganyaan: India's first mission to send astronauts to space Such collisions can turn disastrous and they can also give the scientists an opportunity to track space junk. When the collision of debris takes place and it gets fragmented into smaller pieces, some of it gets vapourised into a charged gas due to the heat from the impact. The collision creates bursts of lightning-like energy. As per the most recent simulations by the team, when the collision of two pieces of aluminium takes place at typical orbital speeds, they release an electrical burst, which is detected on Earth using a high-quality radio receiver. This eventually helps the scientists track the space junk and send alerts to keep the spacecraft in space safe and undamaged. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists find a 'unique' way to keep spacecraft safer than they ever were

A NASA experiment called Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC) has marked a key milestone in achieving "first light," successfully transmitting and receiving data&nbsp;to and from far beyond the Moon using a near-infrared laser.

The experiment, which is seeking to revolutionise spacecraft communication, is part of the recently launched Psyche spacecraft.

A near-infrared laser encoded with test data was sent from a distance of nearly 10 million miles&nbsp;to the Hale Telescope at Caltech’s Palomar Observatory in San Diego County, California.

The distance even surpassed the Moon-Earth distance by about 40 times. This marked&nbsp;the farthest-ever demonstration of optical communications.

The experiment utilised a cutting-edge laser transceiver aboard the Psyche spacecraft to send and receive signals. This groundbreaking achievement signified a leap forward in high-bandwidth data transmission, crucial for future space missions.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/at-global-average-temperature-of-2-degrees-earth-likely-to-see-disastrous-40-feet-of-sea-level-rise-659748">At global average temperature of 2 degrees, Earth likely to see disastrous 40 feet of sea level rise</a>

The successful "first light" moment occurred on November&nbsp;14, as the laser transceiver locked onto a powerful uplink laser beacon transmitted from the Optical Communications Telescope Laboratory at JPL’s Table Mountain Facility.

The collaborative effort between the transceiver and ground stations, along with automated systems, fine-tuned the laser's pointing back to Palomar.

<h2>Future missions</h2>

Trudy Kortes, director of Technology Demonstrations at NASA Headquarters, highlighted the importance of achieving "first light" as a critical milestone.&nbsp;

“Achieving first light is one of many critical DSOC milestones in the coming months, paving the way toward higher-data-rate communications capable of sending scientific information, high-definition imagery, and streaming video in support of humanity’s next giant leap: sending humans to Mars,” said Kortes said.&nbsp;

The experiment is not transmitting Psyche mission data and DSOC&nbsp;operations do not intervene with the data of the spacecraft.

<h5>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-joe-biden-says-stable-china-ties-will-benefit-the-world-659699">US President Joe Biden says, 'stable China ties will benefit the world'</a></h5>

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The Psyche spacecraft is undergoing checkouts, testing propulsion systems, and instruments for studying the asteroid Psyche upon its arrival in 2028.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A NASA experiment called Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC) has marked a key milestone in achieving "first light," successfully transmitting and receiving data to and from far beyond the Moon using a near-infrared laser.

A NASA experiment called Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC) has marked a key milestone in achieving "first light," successfully transmitting and receiving data to and from far beyond the Moon using a near-infrared laser. The experiment, which is seeking to revolutionise spacecraft communication, is part of the recently launched Psyche spacecraft. A near-infrared laser encoded with test data was sent from a distance of nearly 10 million miles to the Hale Telescope at Caltech’s Palomar Observatory in San Diego County, California. The distance even surpassed the Moon-Earth distance by about 40 times. This marked the farthest-ever demonstration of optical communications. The experiment utilised a cutting-edge laser transceiver aboard the Psyche spacecraft to send and receive signals. This groundbreaking achievement signified a leap forward in high-bandwidth data transmission, crucial for future space missions. Also Read | At global average temperature of 2 degrees, Earth likely to see disastrous 40 feet of sea level rise The successful "first light" moment occurred on November 14, as the laser transceiver locked onto a powerful uplink laser beacon transmitted from the Optical Communications Telescope Laboratory at JPL’s Table Mountain Facility. The collaborative effort between the transceiver and ground stations, along with automated systems, fine-tuned the laser's pointing back to Palomar. Future missions Trudy Kortes, director of Technology Demonstrations at NASA Headquarters, highlighted the importance of achieving "first light" as a critical milestone. “Achieving first light is one of many critical DSOC milestones in the coming months, paving the way toward higher-data-rate communications capable of sending scientific information, high-definition imagery, and streaming video in support of humanity’s next giant leap: sending humans to Mars,” said Kortes said. The experiment is not transmitting Psyche mission data and DSOC operations do not intervene with the data of the spacecraft. Watch | US President Joe Biden says, 'stable China ties will benefit the world' × The Psyche spacecraft is undergoing checkouts, testing propulsion systems, and instruments for studying the asteroid Psyche upon its arrival in 2028. (With inputs from agencies)

In a first, NASA experiment transmits data via laser to and from far beyond Moon

India's solar mission spacecraft, Aditya-L1 on Tuesday (Nov 7) captured the first high-energy X-ray glimpse of solar flares.

ISRO, while sharing an update on the recent development, noted that during its first observation period from Oct 29, the High Energy L1 Orbiting X-ray Spectrometer (HEL1OS) on board Aditya-L1 spacecraft has recorded the impulsive phase of solar flares.

“Commissioned on October 27, 2023, HEL1OS is currently undergoing fine-tuning of thresholds and calibration operations. The instrument is set to monitor the Sun's high-energy X-ray activity with fast timing and high-resolution spectra,” ISRO said in a statement.

<h2>What is a solar flare?</h2>

A solar flare is a sudden brightening of the solar atmosphere. Flares produce enhanced emission in all wavelengths across the electromagnetic spectrum – radio, optical, UV, soft X-rays, hard X-rays and gamma-rays.&nbsp;

HEL1OS data enables researchers to study explosive energy release and electron acceleration during impulsive phases of solar flares.&nbsp;

"The instrument is set to monitor the sun's high-energy X-ray activity with fast timing and high-resolution&nbsp;spectra," ISRO wrote on its X timeline.

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Aditya-L1 Mission: 
HEL1OS captures first High-Energy X-ray glimpse of Solar Flares 
 
🔸During its first observation period from approximately 12:00 to 22:00 UT on October 29, 2023, the High Energy L1 Orbiting X-ray Spectrometer (HEL1OS) on board Aditya-L1 has recorded the… <a href="https://t.co/X6R9zhdwM5">pic.twitter.com/X6R9zhdwM5</a>
— ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1721871906851397798?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

It was developed by the Space Astronomy Group of the U. R. Rao Satellite Centre, ISRO, Bengaluru.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-passengers-to-undergo-additional-checks-at-delhi-airport-till-nov-30-656157">Air India passengers to undergo additional checks at Delhi airport after Pannun threatens to blow up flight</a>

Earlier in Oct, Aditya-L1 escaped the sphere of Earth's influence.

"This is the second time in succession that ISRO could send a spacecraft outside the sphere of influence of the Earth, the first time being the Mars Orbiter Mission," ISRO had said in a statement.

<h2>Aditya-L1 mission</h2>

India’s maiden sun mission was launched on September 2 from the Second Launch Pad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota.&nbsp;

It is equipped with seven scientific payloads developed indigenously by the ISRO and various national research laboratories, including the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) and the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), in the Indian cities of Bengaluru and Pune, respectively.

These payloads are designed to study the photosphere, chromosphere, and the outermost layers of the Sun, known as the corona, using electromagnetic, particle, and magnetic field detectors.

Positioned at the advantageous L1 point, four of these payloads will directly observe the Sun, while the remaining three will conduct in-situ studies of particles and fields at Lagrange point L1.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India's solar mission spacecraft, Aditya-L1 on Tuesday (Nov 7) captured the first high-energy X-ray glimpse of solar flares. ISRO, while sharing an update on the recent development, noted that during its first observation period from Oct 29, the High Energy L1 Orbiting X-ray Spectrometer (HEL1OS) on board Aditya-L1 spacecraft has recorded the impulsive phase of solar flares.

India's solar mission spacecraft, Aditya-L1 on Tuesday (Nov 7) captured the first high-energy X-ray glimpse of solar flares. ISRO, while sharing an update on the recent development, noted that during its first observation period from Oct 29, the High Energy L1 Orbiting X-ray Spectrometer (HEL1OS) on board Aditya-L1 spacecraft has recorded the impulsive phase of solar flares. “Commissioned on October 27, 2023, HEL1OS is currently undergoing fine-tuning of thresholds and calibration operations. The instrument is set to monitor the Sun's high-energy X-ray activity with fast timing and high-resolution spectra,” ISRO said in a statement. What is a solar flare? A solar flare is a sudden brightening of the solar atmosphere. Flares produce enhanced emission in all wavelengths across the electromagnetic spectrum – radio, optical, UV, soft X-rays, hard X-rays and gamma-rays. HEL1OS data enables researchers to study explosive energy release and electron acceleration during impulsive phases of solar flares. "The instrument is set to monitor the sun's high-energy X-ray activity with fast timing and high-resolution spectra," ISRO wrote on its X timeline. Aditya-L1 Mission: HEL1OS captures first High-Energy X-ray glimpse of Solar Flares 🔸During its first observation period from approximately 12:00 to 22:00 UT on October 29, 2023, the High Energy L1 Orbiting X-ray Spectrometer (HEL1OS) on board Aditya-L1 has recorded the… pic.twitter.com/X6R9zhdwM5 — ISRO (@isro) November 7, 2023 × It was developed by the Space Astronomy Group of the U. R. Rao Satellite Centre, ISRO, Bengaluru. Also read: Air India passengers to undergo additional checks at Delhi airport after Pannun threatens to blow up flight Earlier in Oct, Aditya-L1 escaped the sphere of Earth's influence. "This is the second time in succession that ISRO could send a spacecraft outside the sphere of influence of the Earth, the first time being the Mars Orbiter Mission," ISRO had said in a statement. Aditya-L1 mission India’s maiden sun mission was launched on September 2 from the Second Launch Pad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota. It is equipped with seven scientific payloads developed indigenously by the ISRO and various national research laboratories, including the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) and the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), in the Indian cities of Bengaluru and Pune, respectively. These payloads are designed to study the photosphere, chromosphere, and the outermost layers of the Sun, known as the corona, using electromagnetic, particle, and magnetic field detectors. Positioned at the advantageous L1 point, four of these payloads will directly observe the Sun, while the remaining three will conduct in-situ studies of particles and fields at Lagrange point L1. (With inputs from agencies)

ISRO's Aditya-L1 spacecraft captures first high-energy X-ray glimpse of solar flares

NASA recently unveiled a sample scooped from the 4.5 billion-year-old asteroid Bennu saying it contains abundant water and carbon.

NASA unveils sample from asteroid Bennu, says it contains ample water & carbon

NASA revealed on Wednesday (Oct 11) that a sample collected from asteroid Bennu contains abundant water and carbon. Both of these are vital materials involved in the formation of Earth. This finding lends more weight to the hypothesis that foundational blocks for life on Earth was seeded from outer space.

The sample scooped&nbsp;from the 4.5-billion-year-old asteroid&nbsp;is the largest soil sample ever to be taken from the surface of an asteroid.

<h2>The big unveiling</h2>

Asteroid sample collected by the OSRIS-REx spacecraft three years ago was unveiled at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston.

This comes just a little more than two weeks after the&nbsp;sample made it to Earth. It parachuted down in the Utah desert.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-nasa-fetches-celestial-cargo-to-earth-heres-why-bennu-asteroid-samples-matter-639472">Explained | NASA sends Bennu asteroid samples to Earth. Here's why the celestial cargo matters</a>

"The first analysis shows samples that contain abundant water in the form of hydrated clay minerals," NASA chief Bill Nelson said in a press event.&nbsp;

"This is the biggest carbon rich asteroid sample ever returned to Earth," he said, with the carbon contained in the form of both minerals and organic molecules.

<h3>Why is this asteroid sample significant?</h3>

This is only the third Asteroid sample, and by far the biggest, to return to Earth for analysis. Earlier, Japan, via its two similar missions, had retrieved the much smaller asteroid samples.

At the time of its landing, the Bennu sample, as per estimates, weighed about 100 to 250 grams (3.5 to 8.8 ounces).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/us-federal-aviation-administration-proposes-revolutionary-way-to-limit-human-litter-in-earths-orbit-638666">US Federal Aviation Administration proposes revolutionary way to limit human litter in Earth's orbit</a>

Before this, both the capsule and its contents were under examination in a "clean room" at the Utah Test and Training range near the landing site.&nbsp;

Following that, the capsule was transported to the Johnson centre, where its inner canister was opened. This was done so that samples could be parcelled into smaller specimens. These specimens will go to some 200 scientists in 60 laboratories around the world, reports Reuters.

<h2>The Asteroid behind it all</h2>

The celestial samples were collected a year ago from Bennu, a small, carbon-rich asteroid that was discovered in 1999.

Classified as a "near-Earth object", Bennu passes relatively close to the Earth every six years.

The asteroid is made up of a loose collection of rocks and is rich in carbon, which is the building block of life on Earth.

Bennu measures just 500 metres or 1,640 feet in diameter, which means it is tiny compared to the Chicxulub asteroid that some 66 million years ago struck Earth and wiped out the dinosaurs.&nbsp;

Even though Bennu passes by Earth every few years, the odds of an impact are considered remote, but not zero.

Scientists estimate that the asteroid could catastrophically collide with Earth. They estimate that the catastrophe which has a one in 2,700 chance of happening will not take place till the year 2182. This is another reason why understanding Bennu's composition can come in handy.

(With inputs from agencies)

NASA revealed on Wednesday (Oct 11) that a sample collected from asteroid Bennu contains abundant water and carbon. Both of these are vital materials involved in the formation of Earth.

NASA revealed on Wednesday (Oct 11) that a sample collected from asteroid Bennu contains abundant water and carbon. Both of these are vital materials involved in the formation of Earth. This finding lends more weight to the hypothesis that foundational blocks for life on Earth was seeded from outer space. The sample scooped from the 4.5-billion-year-old asteroid is the largest soil sample ever to be taken from the surface of an asteroid. The big unveiling Asteroid sample collected by the OSRIS-REx spacecraft three years ago was unveiled at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston. This comes just a little more than two weeks after the sample made it to Earth. It parachuted down in the Utah desert. Also read | Explained | NASA sends Bennu asteroid samples to Earth. Here's why the celestial cargo matters "The first analysis shows samples that contain abundant water in the form of hydrated clay minerals," NASA chief Bill Nelson said in a press event. "This is the biggest carbon rich asteroid sample ever returned to Earth," he said, with the carbon contained in the form of both minerals and organic molecules. Why is this asteroid sample significant? This is only the third Asteroid sample, and by far the biggest, to return to Earth for analysis. Earlier, Japan, via its two similar missions, had retrieved the much smaller asteroid samples. At the time of its landing, the Bennu sample, as per estimates, weighed about 100 to 250 grams (3.5 to 8.8 ounces). Also read | US Federal Aviation Administration proposes revolutionary way to limit human litter in Earth's orbit Before this, both the capsule and its contents were under examination in a "clean room" at the Utah Test and Training range near the landing site. Following that, the capsule was transported to the Johnson centre, where its inner canister was opened. This was done so that samples could be parcelled into smaller specimens. These specimens will go to some 200 scientists in 60 laboratories around the world, reports Reuters. The Asteroid behind it all The celestial samples were collected a year ago from Bennu, a small, carbon-rich asteroid that was discovered in 1999. Classified as a "near-Earth object", Bennu passes relatively close to the Earth every six years. The asteroid is made up of a loose collection of rocks and is rich in carbon, which is the building block of life on Earth. Bennu measures just 500 metres or 1,640 feet in diameter, which means it is tiny compared to the Chicxulub asteroid that some 66 million years ago struck Earth and wiped out the dinosaurs. Even though Bennu passes by Earth every few years, the odds of an impact are considered remote, but not zero. Scientists estimate that the asteroid could catastrophically collide with Earth. They estimate that the catastrophe which has a one in 2,700 chance of happening will not take place till the year 2182. This is another reason why understanding Bennu's composition can come in handy. (With inputs from agencies)

NASA unveils sample from asteroid Bennu, says it contains abundant water and carbon

NASA on Sunday successfully brought to the Earth the largest soil sample scooped from the surface of the asteroid, Bennu.&nbsp;

The asteroid sample streaked through our planet's surface and parachuted into the Utah desert, delivering precious cargo — a celestial specimen that can potentially hold answers to questions like how Earth became habitable and much more.

<h2>Origin story</h2>

Asteroid samples, as per an AFP report, are composed of the 'original materials of the solar system' and are considered relics of the early solar system.&nbsp;

These materials date back around 4.5 billion years, have remained relatively intact and, as per Osiris-Rex program executive Melissa Morris, "can give us clues about how the solar system formed and evolved."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-nasa-spacecraft-lands-successfully-with-largest-sample-collected-from-asteroid-639236">Watch | NASA spacecraft lands successfully in Utah with largest sample collected from asteroid Bennu</a>

"It's our own origin story," she said, as quoted by AFP.

NASA scientist Amy Simon told AFP that it is hypothesised that by striking Earth's surface, "we do believe asteroids and comets delivered organic material, potentially water, that helped life flourish here on Earth."

<h2>The Asteroid behind it all</h2>

The celestial samples were collected three year ago from Bennu, a small, carbon-rich asteroid that was discovered in 1999.

Classified as a "near-Earth object", Bennu passes relatively close to the Earth every six years.

The asteroid is made up of a loose collection of rocks and is rich in carbon, which is the building block of life on Earth. Scientists believe that it might contain water molecules locked in minerals.

Bennu measures just 500 metres or 1,640 feet in diameter, which means it is tiny compared to the Chicxulub asteroid that some 66 million years ago struck Earth and wiped out the dinosaurs.&nbsp;

Even though Bennu passes by Earth every few years, the odds of an impact are considered remote, but not zero.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/us-federal-aviation-administration-proposes-revolutionary-way-to-limit-human-litter-in-earths-orbit-638666">US Federal Aviation Administration proposes revolutionary way to limit human litter in Earth's orbit</a>

Scientists estimate that the asteroid could catastrophically collide with Earth. They estimate that the catastrophe which has a one in 2,700 chance of happening will not happen till the year 2182. This is another reason why understanding Bennu's composition can come in handy.

Three years back, in 2020, NASA's OSIRIS-REx probe collected samples from Bennu. The probe had landed on Bennu in 2020, four years after it was launched in 2016.&nbsp;

At the time Bennu had surprised scientists. Upon its brief contact with the asteroid, the OSIRIS-REx probe sank into Bennu's surface. This revealed to scientists that much like a children's pool filled with plastic balls, the asteroid had an unexpectedly low density.

<h2>Perilous journey</h2>

The precious samples travelled some 67,000 miles (107,826 kilometres) to touch down on Earth. Osiris-Rex released its gumdrop-shaped capsule as the mother-ship passed our planet.

As per AFP, the final 13 minutes of the descent were a fiery passage, where the capsule hurled at a speed of more than 27,000 miles an hour. During the descent, the temperatures reached up to 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit (2,760 degrees Celsius).

Osiris-Rex meanwhile, as per NASA, has moved on and is "on its way" for a date with another asteroid.

<h2>Tears, hope and billions of miles</h2>

Speaking at a press conference, the Osiris-Rex mission's principal investigator Dante Lauretta said they had high hopes from the sample.

She recalled how emotional the moment the capsule deployed was.&nbsp;

"We heard 'main chute detected," she said, adding, "I literally broke into tears."

"That was the moment I knew we made it home... For me, the real science is just beginning."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/an-asteroid-will-make-a-close-encounter-with-earth-on-september-21-nasa-predicts-638611">Asteroid to make its first-ever close approach to Earth! NASA predicts</a>

NASA has managed to collect roughly nine ounces (250 grams) of dust samples from Bennu's surface. This is by far the largest asteroid sample collected.&nbsp;

Previously, in 2020, Japan's Hayabusa-2 mission collected a five-gram specimen from an asteroid called Ryugu. Ten years before that, in 2010, Japan had brought back a tiny sample from asteroid Itokawa.

Japan had shared a few grains from Ryugu with NASA. The samples, as per Reuters, were found to contain two organic compounds, supporting the hypothesis that celestial objects such as comets, asteroids and meteorites that bombarded early Earth seeded the young planet with the primordial ingredients for life.

<h2>How will the sample be used?</h2>

As per AFP, the sample will travel to Johnson Space Center in Houston for additional study.&nbsp;NASA is expected to release initial results at a news conference on October 11.

The space agency will use roughly one-fourth of the asteroid sample immediately to conduct experiments. It will also share small amounts of the asteroid dust with mission partners Japan and Canada.

However, NASA will save most of it for future generations. It will be, as Lori Glaze, director of NASA's Planetary Sciences division, puts it, a "treasure for scientific analysis for years and years and years to come, to our kids and grandkids and people that haven't even been born yet."

(With inputs from agencies)

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NASA on Sunday successfully brought to the Earth the largest soil sample scooped from the surface of the asteroid, Bennu. The asteroid sample streaked through our planet's surface and parachuted into the Utah desert, delivering precious cargo — a celestial specimen that can potentially hold answers to questions like how Earth became habitable and much more.

NASA on Sunday successfully brought to the Earth the largest soil sample scooped from the surface of the asteroid, Bennu. The asteroid sample streaked through our planet's surface and parachuted into the Utah desert, delivering precious cargo — a celestial specimen that can potentially hold answers to questions like how Earth became habitable and much more. Origin story Asteroid samples, as per an AFP report, are composed of the 'original materials of the solar system' and are considered relics of the early solar system. These materials date back around 4.5 billion years, have remained relatively intact and, as per Osiris-Rex program executive Melissa Morris, "can give us clues about how the solar system formed and evolved." Also read | Watch | NASA spacecraft lands successfully in Utah with largest sample collected from asteroid Bennu "It's our own origin story," she said, as quoted by AFP. NASA scientist Amy Simon told AFP that it is hypothesised that by striking Earth's surface, "we do believe asteroids and comets delivered organic material, potentially water, that helped life flourish here on Earth." The Asteroid behind it all The celestial samples were collected three year ago from Bennu, a small, carbon-rich asteroid that was discovered in 1999. Classified as a "near-Earth object", Bennu passes relatively close to the Earth every six years. The asteroid is made up of a loose collection of rocks and is rich in carbon, which is the building block of life on Earth. Scientists believe that it might contain water molecules locked in minerals. Bennu measures just 500 metres or 1,640 feet in diameter, which means it is tiny compared to the Chicxulub asteroid that some 66 million years ago struck Earth and wiped out the dinosaurs. Even though Bennu passes by Earth every few years, the odds of an impact are considered remote, but not zero. Also read | US Federal Aviation Administration proposes revolutionary way to limit human litter in Earth's orbit Scientists estimate that the asteroid could catastrophically collide with Earth. They estimate that the catastrophe which has a one in 2,700 chance of happening will not happen till the year 2182. This is another reason why understanding Bennu's composition can come in handy. Three years back, in 2020, NASA's OSIRIS-REx probe collected samples from Bennu. The probe had landed on Bennu in 2020, four years after it was launched in 2016. At the time Bennu had surprised scientists. Upon its brief contact with the asteroid, the OSIRIS-REx probe sank into Bennu's surface. This revealed to scientists that much like a children's pool filled with plastic balls, the asteroid had an unexpectedly low density. Perilous journey The precious samples travelled some 67,000 miles (107,826 kilometres) to touch down on Earth. Osiris-Rex released its gumdrop-shaped capsule as the mother-ship passed our planet. As per AFP, the final 13 minutes of the descent were a fiery passage, where the capsule hurled at a speed of more than 27,000 miles an hour. During the descent, the temperatures reached up to 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit (2,760 degrees Celsius). Osiris-Rex meanwhile, as per NASA, has moved on and is "on its way" for a date with another asteroid. Tears, hope and billions of miles Speaking at a press conference, the Osiris-Rex mission's principal investigator Dante Lauretta said they had high hopes from the sample. She recalled how emotional the moment the capsule deployed was. "We heard 'main chute detected," she said, adding, "I literally broke into tears." "That was the moment I knew we made it home... For me, the real science is just beginning." Also read | Asteroid to make its first-ever close approach to Earth! NASA predicts NASA has managed to collect roughly nine ounces (250 grams) of dust samples from Bennu's surface. This is by far the largest asteroid sample collected. Previously, in 2020, Japan's Hayabusa-2 mission collected a five-gram specimen from an asteroid called Ryugu. Ten years before that, in 2010, Japan had brought back a tiny sample from asteroid Itokawa. Japan had shared a few grains from Ryugu with NASA. The samples, as per Reuters, were found to contain two organic compounds, supporting the hypothesis that celestial objects such as comets, asteroids and meteorites that bombarded early Earth seeded the young planet with the primordial ingredients for life. How will the sample be used? As per AFP, the sample will travel to Johnson Space Center in Houston for additional study. NASA is expected to release initial results at a news conference on October 11. The space agency will use roughly one-fourth of the asteroid sample immediately to conduct experiments. It will also share small amounts of the asteroid dust with mission partners Japan and Canada. However, NASA will save most of it for future generations. It will be, as Lori Glaze, director of NASA's Planetary Sciences division, puts it, a "treasure for scientific analysis for years and years and years to come, to our kids and grandkids and people that haven't even been born yet." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | NASA sends Bennu asteroid samples to Earth. Here's why the celestial cargo matters

It has been 7 years since NASA launched its mission to collect samples from asteroids. The long wait for NASA capsule carrying the largest soil sample from an asteroid.

NASA spacecraft carrying asteroid sample touches down in Utah

After seven years, a space voyage came to its climactic end on Sunday (September 24) as a NASA capsule made a safe landing in the Utah desert of the United States, carrying the largest sample ever collected from an asteroid in space. 
 
The capsule made a fiery final descent through the atmosphere of the Earth as expected with the samples collected from asteroid Bennu and parachuted into the&nbsp;Utah desert of the United States. 
 
"Touchdown of the Osiris-Rex sample return capsule. A journey of a billion miles to asteroid Bennu and back has come to an end," said a commentator on NASA's live video webcast of the landing.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/an-asteroid-will-make-a-close-encounter-with-earth-on-september-21-nasa-predicts-638611">Asteroid to make its first-ever close approach to Earth! NASA predicts</a>

The sample, which was collected from asteroid Bennu in 2020, is estimated to contain some 250 grams (nine ounces) of material by the US space agency, which is more than two previous asteroid specimens which were brought back to the Earth by Japanese missions. 
 
Sharing the video of the landing, NASA wrote on X, “TOUCHDOWN! The #OSIRISREx sample capsule landed at the Utah Test and Training Range at 10:52am ET (1452 UTC) after a 3.86-billion mile journey. This marks the US's first sample return mission of its kind and will open a time capsule to the beginnings of our solar system.”

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TOUCHDOWN! The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OSIRISREx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OSIRISREx</a> sample capsule landed at the Utah Test and Training Range at 10:52am ET (1452 UTC) after a 3.86-billion mile journey. This marks the US's first sample return mission of its kind and will open a time capsule to the beginnings of our solar system. <a href="https://t.co/N8fun14Plt">pic.twitter.com/N8fun14Plt</a>
— NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1705959691287761289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Scientists have been hopeful about the sample and have said that it is likely to provide them with more information about the solar system and how Earth turned into a habitable place. 
 
The probe, which was launched in 2016, landed on the asteroid Bennu after four years and was able to collect around nine ounces (250 grams) of dust from the asteroid's rocky surface. 
 
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said that even the small amount of sample should "help us better understand the types of asteroids that could threaten Earth" and cast light "on the earliest history of our solar system.” 
 
"This sample return is really historic. This is going to be the biggest sample we've brought back since the Apollo moon rocks were returned to Earth,” said NASA scientist Amy Simon, while speaking to AFP.

<h2>NASA to announce results of the test on October 11</h2>

The capsule was released by Osiris-Rex early on Sunday, from an altitude of more than 67,000 miles (108,000 kilometres), around four hours before its landing.

WATCH |&nbsp;Asteroid dust on its way to Utah

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After the tire-sized capsule touched down in Utah, it was placed in a net by a team in protective masks and gloves from where it was airlifted by helicopter to a temporary "clean room" nearby.

The sample will be sent to NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston on Monday. The box will be opened by the specialists in another "clean room."

The first results of the sample testing will be announced by NASA in a news conference on October 11.

(With inputs from agencies)

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After seven years, a space voyage came to its climactic end on Sunday (September 24) as a NASA capsule made a safe landing in the Utah desert of the United States, carrying the largest sample ever collected from an asteroid in space.

After seven years, a space voyage came to its climactic end on Sunday (September 24) as a NASA capsule made a safe landing in the Utah desert of the United States, carrying the largest sample ever collected from an asteroid in space. The capsule made a fiery final descent through the atmosphere of the Earth as expected with the samples collected from asteroid Bennu and parachuted into the Utah desert of the United States. "Touchdown of the Osiris-Rex sample return capsule. A journey of a billion miles to asteroid Bennu and back has come to an end," said a commentator on NASA's live video webcast of the landing. ALSO READ | Asteroid to make its first-ever close approach to Earth! NASA predicts The sample, which was collected from asteroid Bennu in 2020, is estimated to contain some 250 grams (nine ounces) of material by the US space agency, which is more than two previous asteroid specimens which were brought back to the Earth by Japanese missions. Sharing the video of the landing, NASA wrote on X, “TOUCHDOWN! The #OSIRISREx sample capsule landed at the Utah Test and Training Range at 10:52am ET (1452 UTC) after a 3.86-billion mile journey. This marks the US's first sample return mission of its kind and will open a time capsule to the beginnings of our solar system.” TOUCHDOWN! The #OSIRISREx sample capsule landed at the Utah Test and Training Range at 10:52am ET (1452 UTC) after a 3.86-billion mile journey. This marks the US's first sample return mission of its kind and will open a time capsule to the beginnings of our solar system. pic.twitter.com/N8fun14Plt — NASA (@NASA) September 24, 2023 × Scientists have been hopeful about the sample and have said that it is likely to provide them with more information about the solar system and how Earth turned into a habitable place. The probe, which was launched in 2016, landed on the asteroid Bennu after four years and was able to collect around nine ounces (250 grams) of dust from the asteroid's rocky surface. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said that even the small amount of sample should "help us better understand the types of asteroids that could threaten Earth" and cast light "on the earliest history of our solar system.” "This sample return is really historic. This is going to be the biggest sample we've brought back since the Apollo moon rocks were returned to Earth,” said NASA scientist Amy Simon, while speaking to AFP. NASA to announce results of the test on October 11 The capsule was released by Osiris-Rex early on Sunday, from an altitude of more than 67,000 miles (108,000 kilometres), around four hours before its landing. WATCH | Asteroid dust on its way to Utah After the tire-sized capsule touched down in Utah, it was placed in a net by a team in protective masks and gloves from where it was airlifted by helicopter to a temporary "clean room" nearby. The sample will be sent to NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston on Monday. The box will be opened by the specialists in another "clean room." The first results of the sample testing will be announced by NASA in a news conference on October 11. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch | NASA spacecraft lands successfully in Utah with largest sample collected from asteroid Bennu

Almost a year has passed since NASA intentionally crashed a $300 million spacecraft into an asteroid. However, now, the asteroid is behaving unexpectedly. NASA's Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) was a one-of-a-kind stunt.

Almost a year has passed since NASA intentionally crashed a $300 million spacecraft into an asteroid. However, now, the asteroid is behaving unexpectedly. NASA's Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) was a one-of-a-kind stunt. They slammed a spacecraft into the space rock Dimporphos at 14,000 miles per hour on September 26, 2022. Dimorphos orbits another asteroid called Didymos. While neither object threatened Earth, the DART demonstrated that NASA could nudge an asteroid and alter its trajectory. The action might come in handy if a planetary defence scenario ever materialises. The tiny but mighty DART craft shortened Dimorphos' orbital period by about 33 minutes. However, according to a new research, Dimorphos' orbiting time has decreased by another full minute compared to NASA's numbers, New Scientist reported. A high school teacher and his students conducted the research from September to November 2022. The study said the asteroid's orbital period, initially 11 hours 55 minutes, has decreased by 34 minutes. ALSO READ | Swiss researchers engineer bacteria to generate electricity using wastewater Jonathan Swift, a math and science teacher at the Thacher School who participated in the research, said, "That was inconsistent at an uncomfortable level." He said, "We tried our best to find the crack in what we had done, but we couldn't find anything." His team presented their findings at a meeting of the American Astronomical Society in New Mexico in June, receiving positive responses. However, Dimorphos' unexpected behaviour is not a cause for alarm, as the asteroid still poses no threat to Earth. But it could teach scientists more about asteroid deflection. No other mission before DART had ever conducted a planetary defence test. Thus, Dimorphos is the only real-world example to learn from. Scientists do not have the accurate reason behind Dimorphos' unexpected behaviour. But there are some theories. One theory suggests that Dimorphos was once tidally locked to Didymos, meaning, like Earth's moon, the same side of the satellite always faced its host. However, the DART mission might have changed its alignment, causing Dimorphos to tumble around as the system's tidal forces changed its orbit. If this theory is true, Dimorphos will likely settle back into a tidally locked state over time, a DART team member said. If the new study is accurate, it won't be the first unintended consequence of NASA's DART mission. Researchers have been learning more about the effects of the spacecraft's crash at Dimorphos over the past year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

NASA hit this asteroid months back and now something weird is happening

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is working on its final preparations for the landing on Earth of a precious asteroid sample next month. NASA teams with the OSIRIS-REx mission completed a vital test on Wednesday (August 30) by collecting a mock capsule that had fallen to Earth in the desert west of Salt Lake City at the Utah Test and Training Range of the US Department of Defence.&nbsp;

The process was part of the mission's final major test prior to the arrival of the actual capsule on September 24. The final preparations were a significant test before the actual capsule with its sample of the asteroid Bennu, acquired in space over three years ago.&nbsp;

Nicola Fox, who is the associate administrator of NASA's Science Mission Directorate in Washington, said: "We are now mere weeks away from receiving a piece of solar system history on Earth, and this successful drop test ensures we're ready."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-believe-an-earth-like-planet-might-hiding-in-our-solar-system-631433">Scientists believe an Earth-like planet might hiding in our solar system</a>&nbsp;

Fox said, "Pristine material from asteroid Bennu will help shed light on the formation of our solar system 4.5 billion years ago, and perhaps even on how life on Earth began."&nbsp;

This drop test comes after a number of practice runs earlier this spring and summer, including capsule retrieval, spacecraft engineering operations and sample preservation processes.&nbsp;

The OSIRIS-REx crew is now getting ready for the actual delivery with less than four weeks till the spacecraft's arrival.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/global-heating-worsening-the-dangers-of-high-altitude-mountaineering-warn-experts-631416">Global heating worsening the dangers of high-altitude mountaineering, warn experts</a>

Dante Lauretta, the principal investigator for OSIRIS-REx at the University of Arizona, Tucson, said: "I am immensely proud of the efforts our team has poured into this endeavor. Just as our meticulous planning and rehearsal prepared us to collect a sample from Bennu, we have honed our skills for sample recovery."&nbsp;

NASA said that an estimated 8.8 ounces of rocky material were taken on board the capsule in 2020 from the surface of the asteroid Bennu.&nbsp;

In the coming years, the sample will be examined by researchers to learn more about the formation of our solar system, our planet, and the genesis of the organic materials that may have given rise to life on Earth. &nbsp;

Rich Burns, the project manager for OSIRIS-REx at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, said: "We are now in the final leg of this seven-year journey, and it feels very much like the last few miles of a marathon, with a confluence of emotions like pride and joy coexisting with a determined focus to complete the race well."&nbsp;

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The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is working on its final preparations for the landing on Earth of a precious asteroid sample next month. NASA teams with the OSIRIS-REx mission completed a vital test on Wednesday (August 30) by collecting a mock capsule that had fallen to Earth in the desert west of Salt Lake City at the Utah Test and Training Range of the US Department of Defence.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is working on its final preparations for the landing on Earth of a precious asteroid sample next month. NASA teams with the OSIRIS-REx mission completed a vital test on Wednesday (August 30) by collecting a mock capsule that had fallen to Earth in the desert west of Salt Lake City at the Utah Test and Training Range of the US Department of Defence. The process was part of the mission's final major test prior to the arrival of the actual capsule on September 24. The final preparations were a significant test before the actual capsule with its sample of the asteroid Bennu, acquired in space over three years ago. Nicola Fox, who is the associate administrator of NASA's Science Mission Directorate in Washington, said: "We are now mere weeks away from receiving a piece of solar system history on Earth, and this successful drop test ensures we're ready." Also read: Scientists believe an Earth-like planet might hiding in our solar system Fox said, "Pristine material from asteroid Bennu will help shed light on the formation of our solar system 4.5 billion years ago, and perhaps even on how life on Earth began." This drop test comes after a number of practice runs earlier this spring and summer, including capsule retrieval, spacecraft engineering operations and sample preservation processes. The OSIRIS-REx crew is now getting ready for the actual delivery with less than four weeks till the spacecraft's arrival. Also read: Global heating worsening the dangers of high-altitude mountaineering, warn experts Dante Lauretta, the principal investigator for OSIRIS-REx at the University of Arizona, Tucson, said: "I am immensely proud of the efforts our team has poured into this endeavor. Just as our meticulous planning and rehearsal prepared us to collect a sample from Bennu, we have honed our skills for sample recovery." NASA said that an estimated 8.8 ounces of rocky material were taken on board the capsule in 2020 from the surface of the asteroid Bennu. In the coming years, the sample will be examined by researchers to learn more about the formation of our solar system, our planet, and the genesis of the organic materials that may have given rise to life on Earth. Rich Burns, the project manager for OSIRIS-REx at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, said: "We are now in the final leg of this seven-year journey, and it feels very much like the last few miles of a marathon, with a confluence of emotions like pride and joy coexisting with a determined focus to complete the race well." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NASA making final preparations for asteroid sample delivery by spacecraft this month

Chandrayaan-3 is on its final voyage. Vikram Lander successfully separated from the spacecraft. The lander is now on its solo journey to the Moon.

Chandrayaan-3: Challenges ahead of Vikram lander's solo journey to the Moon

Innovation in space is reaching new heights. There is an alternative to traditional Chemical Propulsion rockets. 'SOLAR SAIL' can help explore the vast reaches of space.

What is solar sail? How can it revolutionise space travel?

Engineers sent a wrong signal to Voyager 2 and now the space probe is on its own at a distance of 20 billion kilometers at a speed of 56 000 kilometers per hour take a look at our next report as it explains the enduring Legacy of Voyager missions which surpass all records surpassing any other space mission in history in fact.

NASA loses contact with Voyager-2, spacecraft is travelling in interstellar space | WION

The Indian space agency Israel is not the only one tracking and interacting with the Chandrayaan 3 spacecraft; several other international space agencies are also doing the same as the ship is travelling at high speeds around the Earth on its 40-day journey to the Moon.

Space agencies of US, Europe and Australia track ISRO's spacecraft

The Indian Space Agency is currently taking frequent efforts to direct the ship farther away from the earth and towards the moon while India's third lunar spacecraft, Chandrayaan 3, is on its journey to the moon. The spacecraft is healthy and functioning flawlessly.

Explained: Why does Chandrayaan-3 need 40-days to get to the moon?

India's Lunar Spacecraft Chandrayaan-3 which commenced its journey at 2:35pm on 14th July 2023, is expected to cover the 3,84,000kms earth-moon distance in about 40days and make a Lunar soft-landing at 17:47hrs or 5:47pm Indian time on August 23rd. In his post-launch media interaction, ISRO Chairman, Dr. S.Somanath revealed this date and time, referring to it as the targeted landing time, if all went well. With a mission life of one Lunar day(14 earth days), Chandrayaan-3 is meant to land near the Lunar south pole(approximately at 80degrees latitude).

Chandrayaan-3 launch: ISRO to explore dark side of moon

As India launches Chandrayaan-3, there has been an extreme flood alert in the national capital Delhi. Last night, the river Yamuna reached an all-time high of 208.6 metres. Water has now started to recede, but several key areas of Delhi remain flooded. Why is this happening? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: As India aims for the moon, what's happening in Delhi?

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