Tour of Asteroid Bennu

NASA's Osiris Rex mission reached asteroid Bennu, aiming to study and return samples. Initially thought to have a smooth surface, Bennu surprised scientists with its rocky terrain. The mission explored various boulders, each with mythological names, revealing Bennu's dynamic nature and connections to creation myths. Some boulders may have originated from asteroid Vesta, highlighting Bennu's complex history and composition.

What was the initial expectation about Bennu's surface before Osiris Rex's arrival?

• A smooth surface due to low thermal inertia

• A surface covered with ice

• A surface with high thermal inertia

• A surface with active volcanoes

Which boulder on Bennu is associated with Persian mythology?

• Rock Saxum

• Occipital Saxum

• Simmering Saxum

• Gargoyle Saxum

What is the significance of Rock Saxum on Bennu?

• It is located at the asteroid's equator

• It is the brightest boulder on Bennu

• It contains magnetite, used as an early compass

• It is the smallest boulder on Bennu

What mythological creature is Gargoyle Saxum associated with?

• A dragonlike winged monster

• A benevolent bird

• A giant serpent

• A mythical horse

What is the likely origin of the bright boulders found on Bennu?

• They formed on Bennu itself

• They originated from asteroid Vesta

• They were created by volcanic activity

• They are remnants of a comet