Published , Modified Abstract on NASA, ULA Launch Lucy Mission to ‘Fossils’ of Planet Formation Original source
NASA, ULA Launch Lucy Mission to ‘Fossils’ of Planet Formation
On October 16, 2021, NASA and United Launch Alliance (ULA) successfully launched the Lucy mission, which aims to explore the Trojan asteroids that orbit Jupiter. The mission is named after the famous fossilized human ancestor, Lucy, as it seeks to uncover the secrets of the early solar system and the formation of planets. This article will delve into the details of the Lucy mission and its significance in understanding our solar system's history.
What is the Lucy Mission?
The Lucy mission is a robotic spacecraft that will explore six Trojan asteroids that orbit Jupiter. These asteroids are believed to be remnants of the early solar system and could provide valuable insights into how planets formed. The mission is named after the famous fossilized human ancestor, Lucy, as it seeks to uncover the secrets of our solar system's past.
Why Explore Trojan Asteroids?
Trojan asteroids are unique because they share Jupiter's orbit around the sun. They are believed to have formed in the outer solar system and were later captured by Jupiter's gravity. These asteroids are thought to be remnants of planetesimals, which are small bodies that eventually formed into planets. By studying these asteroids, scientists hope to gain a better understanding of how planets formed in our solar system.
How Will Lucy Explore Trojan Asteroids?
Lucy will use a suite of scientific instruments to study each asteroid it encounters. These instruments include cameras, spectrometers, and a laser altimeter. The spacecraft will also carry a radio science experiment that will measure the mass and gravity fields of each asteroid.
What Will Scientists Learn from Lucy?
Scientists hope that Lucy will provide valuable insights into how planets formed in our solar system. By studying these ancient relics, they can learn more about the conditions that existed during the early stages of planet formation. They can also gain a better understanding of how Jupiter's gravity influenced the formation of the solar system.
When Will Lucy Reach Its Destination?
Lucy is expected to reach its first destination, the Trojan asteroid Eurybates, in 2027. The spacecraft will then visit five other Trojan asteroids over the next decade.
Conclusion
The Lucy mission is an exciting new chapter in our exploration of the solar system. By studying these ancient relics, scientists hope to gain a better understanding of how planets formed and how our solar system came to be. With each new discovery, we get closer to unlocking the secrets of our universe.
FAQs
1. What are Trojan asteroids?
Trojan asteroids are small bodies that share Jupiter's orbit around the sun.
2. How many Trojan asteroids will Lucy explore?
Lucy will explore six Trojan asteroids.
3. When will Lucy reach its first destination?
Lucy is expected to reach its first destination, the Trojan asteroid Eurybates, in 2027.
4. What instruments will Lucy use to study Trojan asteroids?
Lucy will use a suite of scientific instruments, including cameras, spectrometers, and a laser altimeter.
5. Why is the mission named Lucy?
The mission is named after the famous fossilized human ancestor, Lucy, as it seeks to uncover the secrets of our solar system's past.
This abstract is presented as an informational news item only and has not been reviewed by a subject matter professional. This abstract should not be considered medical advice. This abstract might have been generated by an artificial intelligence program. See TOS for details.