Ep 55. OSIRIS-REx: Asteroid Hunter

The show Breakthrough season 1 episode 55 follows the story of the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft, developed by NASA to explore the asteroid Bennu, which is believed to hold clues about the origins of life on Earth. Bennu is a carbon-rich asteroid that has not changed much since the early solar system, so scientists believe that it holds key information about the chemical processes that led to the formation of our planet.

This episode begins by discussing the importance of asteroids in our solar system and their potential impact on Earth. The OSIRIS-REx is designed to study Bennu up close and personal, collecting samples that will help scientists learn more about the asteroid's composition and history.

The episode features interviews with some of the key players involved in the development of the OSIRIS-REx, including NASA project scientist Lucy McFadden, who explains the mission's objectives and challenges. The show also features footage of the spacecraft's launch and a look at how it navigates through space using a complex series of thrusters and sensors.

As the OSIRIS-REx approaches Bennu, the tension builds as the team awaits confirmation that the spacecraft has successfully entered into orbit around the asteroid. Once this is confirmed, the team begins to plan the best approach for collecting the samples they need. This involves sending a small robot down to the surface to scoop up bits of material that will be sealed inside a canister and sent back to Earth for analysis.

Throughout the episode, viewers get a sense of the incredible precision and planning required for a mission like this. Scientists must calculate the asteroid's trajectory to within centimeters and adjust their plans based on data collected by the spacecraft in real-time.

The show also discusses the risks involved in a mission like this, including the chance of spacecraft malfunction or damage from the asteroid's rugged terrain. However, with a lot of hard work and a little bit of luck, the team ultimately succeeds in collecting a sample of Bennu's material.

The episode concludes with a look at what this sample could reveal about the early solar system and the possibility of life beyond Earth. This mission represents a breakthrough in our understanding of our place in the universe and the forces that shaped our planet. It is a testament to the ingenuity and determination of the scientists and engineers who made it possible.

Overall, this episode of Breakthrough provides a fascinating look into the world of space exploration, offering a glimpse into the challenges and rewards of pushing the boundaries of what we know about our universe. Whether you're a space enthusiast or just someone who enjoys a good story of human accomplishment, this episode is sure to captivate and inspire.