NASA selects asteroid target site for spacecraft to sample

The OSIRIS-REx mission aims to gather samples from the asteroid Bennu. The spacecraft has been orbiting Bennu since December 2018. The Nightingale site, located in a cooler region of Bennu, is chosen for its potential to preserve ancient materials. The site is a 20-meter wide crater within a larger crater, posing a challenge for the spacecraft's landing. Bennu is rich in carbon and organic substances, making it scientifically valuable. The spacecraft will briefly touch down on Bennu to collect samples using its robotic arm.

Who is the principal investigator of the mission to Bennu?

• Buzz Aldrin

• Neil Armstrong

• Carl Sagan

• Dante Loretta

What is the significance of the Nightingale site on Bennu?

• It is the largest crater on Bennu.

• It is located at the asteroid's south pole.

• It preserves materials from Bennu's formation.

• It is the warmest area on Bennu.

What is the width of the Nightingale crater?

• 40 meters

• 10 meters

• 20 meters

• 30 meters

What makes Bennu one of the oldest rocks in the solar system?

• Its rich carbon and organic substances

• Its proximity to the sun

• Its large size

• Its high iron content

How long will the spacecraft touch down on Bennu to collect samples?

• One day

• A few minutes

• Several hours

• A split second