Professor Michelle Thompson from Purdue University led a team that collected samples from the asteroid Bennu. The samples are like time capsules that provide insight into the formation of our solar system over four and a half billion years ago. 

Thompson said that looking at the organic molecules from Bennu will help us understand what kinds of molecules could have seeded life on early Earth. The samples will provide information about what compounds and elements are there, and in what proportions. 

NASA’s OSIRIS-REx spacecraft collected the sample from Bennu in 2020. The sample was estimated to be 8.8 ounces, or 250 grams. The material was protected so that it wouldn’t get too hot while re-entering Earth’s atmosphere. The sample landed in the Utah desert on September 24. It was transported in its unopened canister by aircraft to NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston on September 25

The OSIRIS-REx spacecraft collected samples from Bennu. The spacecraft was launched in 2016. It’s an asteroid-study and sample-return mission. The spacecraft’s goal was to return 60 grams of material

NASA chose Bennu for the OSIRIS-REx mission because of its composition, accessibility, and scientific importance.  Bennu is a carbonaceous chondrite, which means it’s rich in carbon and organic molecules.  These molecules are essential for life.  Bennu is also relatively close to Earth. 

Other reasons why Bennu was chosen include: 

• It’s well characterized by radar and telescopic data. 
• It’s well preserved. 
• It might contain clues to the origin of life. 
• It contains valuable materials. 
• It will help us better understand other asteroids. 

Bennu is one of the most fascinating and accessible near-Earth objects.

The main goal of the OSIRIS-REx mission was to survey Bennu and bring back a sample of its material. The sample will help scientists learn about the origins of life and the solar system. 

Scientists believe that asteroids like Bennu might have delivered necessary elements such as water to Earth early in our planet’s formation. Studying the sample could answer lingering questions about the origins of our solar system

Professor Michelle Thompson, hailing from Purdue University in Indiana, has accomplished a remarkable feat by leading a team that collected samples from the Asteroid Bennu. These samples are nothing short of time capsules, offering insights into the formation of our solar system over four and a half billion years ago

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