OSIRIS-REx Slings Orbital Web Around Asteroid to Capture Sample

The OSIRIS-REx spacecraft, a NASA mission, accomplished a remarkable feat by executing a precision orbital maneuver around the near-Earth asteroid named Bennu. This maneuver involved the spacecraft slinging itself into a carefully calculated trajectory that resembled a web-like pattern around the asteroid. The purpose of this maneuver was to facilitate the capture of a surface sample from Bennu, a primordial remnant from the early solar system, and return it to Earth for detailed analysis.

The process involved several key steps:

1. **Approach and Survey:** OSIRIS-REx initially approached Bennu and conducted a thorough survey of its surface using advanced imaging systems. This survey helped scientists identify potential sample collection sites and better understand the asteroid's topography and composition.

2. **Reconnaissance:** After identifying a suitable location, the spacecraft conducted several reconnaissance passes over the chosen sample site. This allowed the mission team to gather high-resolution images and data to create detailed maps of the area.

3. **Touch-and-Go (TAG) Sample Collection:** The web-like orbital path around Bennu was meticulously designed to bring the spacecraft close enough to the surface for a brief touch-and-go maneuver. During this maneuver, OSIRIS-REx extended its robotic arm, called the Touch-And-Go Sample Acquisition Mechanism