Tianwen-2 Asteroid Mission
China has embarked on a pioneering space mission named Tianwen-2. Launched on 28 May 2025, this mission aims to retrieve samples from the near-Earth asteroid 469219 Kamoʻoalewa. This asteroid is unique as it acts as a quasi-satellite of Earth, orbiting between 15 to 39 million kilometres away. The mission is step in China’s growing role in space exploration.
Mission Objectives
The Tianwen-2 mission has clear objectives. It aims to study the asteroid closely and collect approximately 100 grams of material. The mission will use a suite of 11 sophisticated instruments, including cameras and spectrometers, to conduct in-depth analysis.
Sample Collection Techniques
Three methods are planned for sample collection. The first method involves hovering near the asteroid. The second method uses a robotic arm to gather samples directly. The third, dubbed “touch and go,” entails landing briefly on the asteroid to drill and retrieve materials.
Timeline and Return
The mission is set to reach Kamoʻoalewa in July 2026. After collecting samples, a module will be released to return to Earth in November 2027. Successful retrieval would position China as the third nation to collect asteroid material, following the United States and Japan.
Future Endeavours
The mission is part of a larger 10-year plan. After Kamoʻoalewa, the spacecraft will use a gravitational swing-by from Earth to travel to another target, the active asteroid 311P/PanSTARRS. This body lies in the main asteroid belt and will be studied from a distance.
Background of Tianwen Missions
Tianwen-2 follows the successful Tianwen-1 mission, which landed on Mars in May 2021. Tianwen-1 has provided valuable data about the Martian surface and potential water-ice reserves. China’s ambitious plans include Tianwen-3, aimed at retrieving samples from Mars, with a potential launch in 2028.
China’s Space Programme
China’s space programme has rapidly advanced over the past two decades. It is controlled by the People’s Liberation Army. The country has achieved milestones, including landing on Mars and the far side of the Moon. The Tiangong space station, entirely Chinese-built, marks China’s commitment to permanent space exploration.
International Cooperation
China has expressed willingness for international cooperation in space exploration. However, collaboration with the United States is contingent upon the removal of legislative barriers preventing cooperation with NASA.
| Related | |
|---|---|
