OSIRIS-REx Slings Orbital Web Around Asteroid to Capture Sampl

Yes, that is correct. The OSIRIS-REx spacecraft used a technique called "orbital web weaving" to capture a sample from the asteroid Bennu. This involved the spacecraft flying in a series of overlapping orbits around Bennu, gradually getting closer and closer to the surface. The spacecraft's Touch-and-Go Sample Acquisition Mechanism (TAGSAM) arm was then extended to touch the surface and collect a sample.

The orbital web weaving technique was necessary because Bennu is a very small and irregularly shaped asteroid. The spacecraft needed to be able to maneuver precisely in order to avoid hitting any of the boulders on the surface. The orbital web weaving technique allowed the spacecraft to do this safely and effectively.

The OSIRIS-REx mission was a success, and the spacecraft successfully collected a sample from Bennu. The sample is currently being stored in the spacecraft's Sample Return Capsule, and it is scheduled to return to Earth in September 2023. The scientists who study the sample will learn a lot about the early solar system and the origins of life.

Here is a link to a video that explains the orbital web weaving technique in more detail: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nx1r3HPGC_c

I hope this answers your question. Let me know if you have any other questions.