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NASA releases timelapse of Psyche spacecraft's flyby of Mars
Key points
- Psyche spacecraft made close approach to Mars on May 15.
- Timelapse video includes views of Mars' surface and moons.
- Gravity assist helps trajectory towards asteroid Psyche.
Psyche's Flyby of Mars
NASA's Psyche spacecraft made a significant close approach to Mars on May 15 during its mission to explore the asteroid Psyche. This maneuver was crucial as it involved a gravity assist that adjusted Psyche's trajectory and increased its speed toward the asteroid belt.
Imaging and Timelapse Video
During its flyby, Psyche captured thousands of images using its multispectral imager. NASA shared a timelapse video that stitches these images together, providing a captivating view of Mars, including a crescent shape upon arrival, detailed surface views, and the icy south pole.
Instruments and Tests
Jim Bell, the instrument lead at Arizona State University, emphasized the successful performance of the imager, which notably captured the Martian moons Phobos and Deimos from a distance. This testing is part of the preparations for similar searches at the asteroid Psyche for any potential moonlets.
Future Mission Goals
Psyche is designed to reach the asteroid Psyche in 2029. This mission aims to enhance understanding of the building blocks of planet formation, marking a significant advancement in space exploration.
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Reporting from
NASA's Psyche spacecraft shared a timelapse video from its May flyby of Mars, showcasing stunning images. This gravity assist maneuver enhances its trajectory towards the asteroid Psyche, expected to be reached in 2029.