Since its launch in October 2023, NASA’s Psyche spacecraft has been on course for asteroid Psyche. From what we know, Asteroid Psyche is likely made of a mixture of rock and metal — quite similar to Earth’s makeup. Hence, by studying this asteroid, scientists hope to understand how planets like Earth formed.
But for Psyche’s mission to be successful, testing and calibrating its imager instrument is crucial. Given that asteroid Psyche reflects the Sun’s light, Psyche had to try to capture an object that also reflects the light from the Sun. Psyche had earlier taken images of Jupiter and Mars, both of which are redder than Earth.
On July 20 and 23, Psyche calibrated its imager instrument by capturing Earth and its moon. The spacecraft’s imager comprises twin cameras. These cameras have filters and telescopic lenses that can take images of distant objects in different spectra of light.
The team will continue testing the imagers. Saturn or Vesta is the likely target for the next test. The much bigger milestone for the Psyche spacecraft, though, is its flyby of Mars next year. Mars’ gravity will act as a slingshot to give the spacecraft the boost it needs to be able to arrive at asteroid Psyche in 2029.
NASA: 1 and 2
Image source: NASA (1) and 2 (linked above)
I have always been fascinated by technology and digital devices my entire life and even got addicted to it. I have always marveled at the intricacy of even the simplest digital devices and systems around us. I have been writing and publishing articles online for about 6 years now, just about a year ago, I found myself lost in the marvel of smartphones and laptops we have in our hands every day. I developed a passion for learning about new devices and technologies that come with them and at some point, I asked myself, “Why not get into writing tech articles?” It is useless to say I followed up the idea — it is evident. I am an open-minded individual who derives an infinite amount of joy from researching and discovering new information, I believe there is so much to learn and such a short life to live, so I put my time to good use — learning new things. I am a ‘bookworm’ of the internet and digital devices. When I am not writing, you will find me on my devices still, I do explore and admire the beauty of nature and creatures. I am a fast learner and quickly adapt to changes, always looking forward to new adventures.