OSIRIS-REx Tech – Surveying an Asteroid with Light

The Osiris Rex mission aims to collect and return a sample from asteroid Bennu, a primitive solar system body. Equipped with advanced instruments like the Oliviers spectrometer, the mission seeks to uncover the origins of the solar system by analyzing Bennu's composition. The mission faces challenges such as designing durable instruments for space and rigorous testing to ensure launch readiness. The returned samples will be studied globally, providing insights for decades.

What is the primary goal of the Osiris Rex mission?

• To explore the surface of Mars

• To collect a sample from asteroid Bennu

• To map the surface of the Moon

• To study the atmosphere of Venus

Why is asteroid Bennu considered interesting for scientists?

• It is the closest asteroid to Earth

• It is the largest asteroid in the solar system

• It is believed to be covered with carbon material and organics

• It has a unique magnetic field

What is the function of the OVIRS spectrometer on the Osiris Rex mission?

• To break down light into individual wavelengths to identify materials

• To capture images of Bennu

• To communicate with Earth

• To measure the temperature of Bennu

Why does OVIRS have no moving parts?

• To improve its accuracy

• To make it lighter for the launch

• To minimize the risk of failure in space

• To reduce the cost of the mission

What is the purpose of the vibration test for OVIRS?

• To ensure it can withstand the conditions on Bennu

• To prove it is launch worthy

• To calibrate its sensors

• To test its ability to detect organics