Modified Carbon NASA has unveiled the findings of its initial assessment, declaring that asteroid samples obtained by the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft from asteroid Bennu are abundantly rich in both water and carbon, often referred to as the “cornerstones of life on Earth.” This announcement marks a triumphant moment for NASA.
This discovery bolsters the theory that celestial bodies like Bennu, which have periodically collided with Earth throughout history, might have played a pivotal role in the emergence of life on our home planet.
The recently released image of the sample collector on the spacecraft’s exterior showcases these samples, composed of carbon-rich, hydrated clay minerals, with carbon accounting for roughly five percent of their overall weight.
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson expressed, “The OSIRIS-REx sample represents the largest carbon-rich asteroid sample ever returned to Earth. It will serve as a valuable resource for scientists as they delve into the origins of life on our planet for generations to come.”
Challenges Amidst the Success The OSIRIS-REx mission, which commenced in 2016, culminated in reaching the 1,650-foot-wide asteroid after a two-year journey across the solar system. In 2020, its collection system, known as the Touch-and-Go Sample Acquisition Mechanism (TAGSAM), delicately collected approximately 8.8 ounces of material from the asteroid’s surface.
Just last month, this precious cargo touched down safely in the Utah desert. Since then, scientists have been meticulously scrutinizing the results and examining the collected samples within a sterile laboratory. Meanwhile, the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft is en route to another asteroid, Apophis.
Today’s announcement marks an exciting milestone, though it’s important to note that this is only the initial stage of what promises to be a substantial mission. Scientists are still in the process of examining the TAGSAM system, which has been slow-going due to the abundance of samples within the container.
Eileen Stansbery, Chief Scientist at the Johnson Space Center, shared during the announcement, “The scientific insights gleaned from the mission thus far, combined with the wealth of data that we have yet to uncover from these samples, mark the start of an extraordinary journey with OSIRIS-REx.”
