OSIRIS-REx is a NASA spacecraft mission designed for the exploration of the near-Earth asteroid 101955 Bennu. Launched on September 8, 2016. Its primary objectives include the collection of surface samples from Bennu, the study of the asteroid’s characteristics, and the return of collected samples to Earth for detailed analysis. The mission aims to provide insights into the early solar system, the origins of life, and potential planetary defense against hazardous asteroids.
Reference:
- OSIRIS-REx mission page: https://www.asteroidmission.org/