TechNASA's Psyche probe captures first images on a journey to the trillion-dollar asteroid

NASA's Psyche probe captures first images on a journey to the trillion-dollar asteroid

NASA probe on its way to asteroid Psyche 16

Images source: © Getty Images | buradaki

7:17 AM EST, December 7, 2023

NASA has announced that the space probe, Psyche, has begun beaming its gaze into space. The agency has shared the first images captured by the spacecraft, currently travelling towards the noteworthy "metal" asteroid. Although it's just a glimpse from the route, featuring the constellation Pisces, it evokes substantial optimism. The resources found on this celestial body are estimated to be worth a staggering $10 trillion, exceeding the entirety of the global economy.

The Psyche probe started its journey from Earth on October 13 and will continue its voyage for more than five years. Upon reaching its target, it is expected to capture momentous photographs. Drawing from these, NASA plans to create a three-dimensional map of the renowned "metal" asteroid, Psyche 16. The initial testing of the optical instruments marks a significant milestone, encouraging NASA to share the outcomes with the public.

Initial testing of psyche probe's optical instruments

Although it will take a few years for the Psyche probe to arrive at its observational position, NASA aims to utilize it on its journey as well. Rigorous testing of its scientific instruments is currently in progress. To date, all tests have proceeded successfully and it's now time to focus on the visual elements.

NASA confirmed that the spacecraft's cameras were successfully activated on December 5. The Psyche probe transmitted observational results back to Earth, amassing a total of 68 images of the Pisces constellation.

The invaluable asteroid, Psyche 16

Orbiting between Mars and Jupiter, the asteroid Psyche 16 has gained recognition as an incredibly valuable object. Composed of nickel and iron with a minor blend of rocky materials, the resources it holds are estimated to be worth more than humanity can afford. This amounts to around $10 trillion, surpassing the world's economy.

The first images delivered to Earth by the Psyche probe. The mosaic shows stars in the Pisces constellation. At the bottom is a version of the mosaic where the names of the depicted stars are marked.© JPL-Caltech, NASA

However, the aim of the Psyche probe's mission extends beyond such tangible profits. It is set to provide a unique perspective in human history by examining an object with a remarkably unusual composition within the Solar System, one notably similar to our own planet. The value of nickel and iron are derived from their prevalence in both the distant asteroid and Earth's core. By intricately studying Psyche 16, scientists aspire to unravel the secrets our planet keeps concealed.