How good is OSIRIS-REx (Bennu Sample Return)?

OSIRIS-REx (Bennu Sample Return) has a Lunoo score of 9.7/10. This score is based on AI-powered analysis of category fit, feature coverage, pricing signals, public reception, and recency.

Where does OSIRIS-REx (Bennu Sample Return) rank on Lunoo?

OSIRIS-REx (Bennu Sample Return) is ranked #3 in Lunoo's Best Space Mission rankings with a score of 9.7/10.

Is OSIRIS-REx (Bennu Sample Return) worth it in 2026?

OSIRIS-REx (Bennu Sample Return) scores 9.7/10 in the Space Mission category on Lunoo. Compare it with alternatives to find the best fit for your needs.

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OSIRIS-REx (Bennu Sample Return)

9.66

Brilliant

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Space Mission 2023 Nasa Asteroid Earth Return Bennu Sample

description OSIRIS-REx (Bennu Sample Return) Overview

OSIRIS-REx is a NASA spacecraft mission designed to travel to the near-Earth asteroid 101955 Bennu, collect a surface sample, and return it to Earth for analysis. Launched in 2016, the spacecraft successfully arrived at the asteroid in 2018 and spent two years mapping its surface and selecting a sampling site. It gathered material in October 2020 and jettisoned the sample capsule, which landed in the Utah desert in September 2023. The mission provides scientists with pristine asteroid material to study the early solar system.

insights Ranking position

OSIRIS-REx (Bennu Sample Return) ranks #3 of 270 in the Space Mission ranking, behind Mars 2020 (Perseverance), ahead of STS-61 Hubble Servicing.

help OSIRIS-REx (Bennu Sample Return) FAQ

When did the OSIRIS-REx capsule return the asteroid sample to Earth?

The OSIRIS-REx sample return capsule successfully landed in the Utah desert on September 24, 2023. It successfully brought back roughly 250 grams of surface material collected from the near-Earth asteroid Bennu.

What was the main scientific purpose of the OSIRIS-REx mission?

OSIRIS-REx was launched to study the near-Earth asteroid Bennu and return a pristine carbon-rich sample to our planet. Scientists are analyzing the sample to better understand the formation of the early solar system and the origins of organic molecules.

When did the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft briefly touch the surface of asteroid Bennu?

The spacecraft performed its 'Touch-And-Go' (TAG) maneuver to collect the sample on October 20, 2020. During this brief contact, it fired a burst of nitrogen gas to agitate the surface and capture the loose regolith.

Will the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft continue to explore space after dropping off its sample?

Yes, after dropping off its sample at Earth in 2023, the main spacecraft continued on a new trajectory. It has been redirected to study the infamous near-Earth asteroid Apophis during its close approach to Earth in 2029, under the extended mission name OSIRIS-APEX.

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