Origins of Life and Asteroid Bennu

What is the primary reason scientists are studying asteroids like Bennu?

• To discover new planets

• To find new minerals for mining

• To understand the origin of life

• To test new spacecraft technology

What evidence suggests that Bennu had a wet and salty past?

• Traces of volcanic activity

• Presence of ice crystals

• Bright veins of salts

• High levels of carbon dioxide

Which of the following was NOT found in the Bennu samples?

• Microcrystals of trona

• Nucleobases

• Amino acids

• Pure ammonia

What does the presence of both left and right-handed amino acids in Bennu samples suggest?

• Life on Earth started with only right-handed amino acids

• Amino acids on early Earth may have been a mix of both types

• Left-handed amino acids are more stable in space

• Right-handed amino acids are more common in the universe

What future mission is expected to provide more insights into the origins of life?

• Voyager 3 Mission

• Europa Clipper Mission

• Mars Rover Mission

• Lunar Gateway Project