NASA is advancing toward an upcoming mission to investigate one of a kind asteroid called Psyche. The metal-rock asteroid circles the Sun between Mars and Jupiter and could solve the mystery of Earth Formation. NASA’s Psyche mission will be using a spacecraft (Solar Electric Propulsion (SEP) Chassis) planned to launch in 2022
The Psyche previously passed with positive results, the blueprint phase and engineering model tests satisfying the systems used will work perfectly in the space. Psyche has a similar composition to earth’s core composed of iron and nickel unlike typical icy or rocky asteroids.
Psyche asteroid study basically means learning more about the earth. Scientists are optimistic about the results and are calling it the heart of the planet that has lost its outer layers. The spacecraft intended for the Psyche strategically utilize a magnetometer to gauge the attractive field of the Psyche asteroid. NASA is likewise constructing a multispectral imager that will catch pictures from the surface and information about the asteroid creation. There are additionally devoted spectrometers to break down the neutrons and gamma beams originating from the surface to consider the component piece.
NASA intends to test the spacecraft starting from February 2021. If they succeed with the testing process, the launch will take place in August 2022. NASA expects to reach the Psyche asteroid in early 2026.
You can learn more about the Psyche on NASA’s website.
