Hayabusa2 just tried to collect asteroid dust for the first time

The Hayabusa2 spacecraft quickly hit the surface of the asteroid Ryugu, making the first of three planned attempts to capture a pinch of dust. The analysis of the sample could illuminate the origins of the planets or even the possibility of living elsewhere in the solar system.

But scientists will have no idea how much dust Hawaiabusa2 managed to hold back until the machine returned to Earth in 2020.

When Hayabusa2 arrived at the 1,000-meter-wide Ryugu in June, scientists were surprised to find the surface of the diamond-shaped diamond-shaped asteroid (SN online: 6/27/18). This rugged terrain made it difficult to find a good landing point.

In December, the team conducted experiments on Earth to ensure that its sample collection technique would work on such a rocky surface. The tests suggested that the strategy of firing a tantalum ball into the surface to eject the asteroid dust, then to gather that dust into a long flared horn, should work with Ryugu.

Scientists from the control room of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency in Sagamihara received data from Hayabusa2 shortly before 6 pm. EST on February 21 (8 am on February 22 in Japan), confirming that the craft had landed safely on Ryugu.

The mission team applauded, with a shouting member "Yatta!" – or "we did it!" In Japanese – according to a video released by the Japanese Space Agency.

Shortly after, the team confirmed that the shuttle had pulled the bullet, which means it probably had also taken a sample. The craft then rose from the surface and pulled out at a safe distance from Ryugu.

"I just want to jump," said project manager Junichiro Kawaguchi in an interview from the control room. "This was the most crucial point, whether or not you can confirm that the projectile fired."

Hayabusa2 has two more balls on board for two more collection attempts later this year. For a sample, the team will use a larger projectile to blow a crater into the asteroid and get material beneath the surface.

When the spacecraft returns to Earth, scientists will examine the samples for traces of organic materials that could help explain how life began in the solar system (SN: 1/19/19, p. 20).