Unveiling the Secrets of NASA's Asteroid Sample Canister

Scientists have opened the canister containing samples from asteroid Bennu, finding black dust and debris on the avionics deck. The debris most likely came from Bennu itself when the spacecraft landed on the asteroid in October 2020. The canister will be disassembled to access the bulk of the sample, which includes an estimated 8.8 ounces of asteroid rock and dust. Researchers will analyze the dust for insights into its chemical, mineralogical, and physical characteristics. Early findings and images will be revealed during a live broadcast on October 11.