Bennu sample collected by the OSIRIS-REx mission has shown evidence of high-carbon content and water, according to NASA’s preliminary assessment. This finding could indicate the presence of the building blocks of life on Earth in the asteroid material. The OSIRIS-REx sample, the largest carbon-rich asteroid sample ever delivered to Earth, will be studied for decades to investigate the origins of life and gain insights into our solar system’s formation.
ADDITIONAL DISCOVERIES
When the sample canister was opened, scientists discovered bonus asteroid material covering the collector head, canister lid, and base, indicating an abundance of material. Quick-look analyses, including scanning electron microscopy, infrared measurements, X-ray diffraction, and chemical element analysis, were performed within the first two weeks, revealing the presence of abundant carbon and water in the sample.
JOURNEY CONTINUES
The mission’s science team will continue characterizing the samples and conducting further analysis to meet the mission’s science goals over the next two years.
At least 70% of the sample will be preserved at NASA Johnson for research by scientists worldwide, including future generations.
A cohort of over 200 scientists from around the world will explore the regolith’s properties, advancing our understanding of the solar system’s origins.
Additional samples will be displayed at institutions like the Smithsonian Institution, Space Center Houston, and the University of Arizona.
BENNU MISSION
OSIRIS-REx is part of NASA’s New Frontiers Program and is managed by NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama.
The mission was led by the University of Arizona, with Lockheed Martin Space building the spacecraft and managing flight operations.
Curation for OSIRIS-REx is taking place at NASA Johnson.
This discovery provides valuable insights into the origins of life on Earth and the nature of asteroids in our solar system.
