description Tianwen-2 Overview
Tianwen-2 is a Chinese planetary exploration mission focused first on near-Earth asteroid 2016 HO3, also designated 469219 Kamo'oalewa. The spacecraft is intended to study the asteroid, collect a surface sample, and return that material to Earth. After the sample-return phase, the main spacecraft is planned to continue to main-belt comet 311P/PANSTARRS for additional scientific observations.
help Tianwen-2 FAQ
What asteroid will Tianwen-2 visit first?
Tianwen-2 is focused first on near-Earth asteroid 2016 HO3. The asteroid is also designated 469219 Kamo'oalewa.
Will Tianwen-2 return an asteroid sample to Earth?
The mission is intended to study 2016 HO3, collect surface material, and return that sample to Earth. Sample return is the first major phase of the mission.
What happens after Tianwen-2's asteroid sample-return phase?
After the sample-return phase, the spacecraft is intended to continue to a later planetary-object investigation. The asteroid visit and sample return come first in the mission plan.
Why is 469219 Kamo'oalewa mentioned in descriptions of Tianwen-2?
469219 Kamo'oalewa is another designation for near-Earth asteroid 2016 HO3. Tianwen-2's first target is therefore known by both names.
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