Search
> Media PoolNASA shows off first sample from asteroid Bennu
Clip ID 2273701
Clearance
Add to
Share
Add to Review Link
By Request
By Request assets are not available for immediate purchase.
This content has not been pre-checked for copyright.
Per clip rates are for 20 seconds of final usage. If you are using more then 20 seconds or need a different file format or have questions about clearances contact us
Description
NASA on Wednesday showed off its first asteroid samples delivered last month by a spacecraft — the most ever returned to Earth.
Scientists and space agency leaders took part in the reveal at Johnson Space Center in Houston.
The ancient black dust and chunks are from the carbon-rich asteroid named Bennu, almost 60 million miles away. NASA’s Osiris-Rex spacecraft collected the samples three years ago and then dropped them off sealed in a capsule during a flyby of Earth last month.
Scientists anticipated at least a cupful of rocks, far more than what Japan brought back from a pair of missions years ago. They’re still not sure about the exact quantity. That’s because the main sample chamber has yet to be opened, officials said.
Black dust and particles were scattered around the outside edge of the chamber, according to Lauretta.
Besides carbon, the asteroid rubble holds water in the form of water-bearing clay minerals, said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson.
Station
WBNS
Related Footage

Samples from deep space asteroid named Bennu arrive in Houston
Samples from deep space asteroid named Bennu arrive in Houston
00:01:10 - Youtube video: 6w1pvx88ALc

NASA spots asteroid that could hit Earth in 157 years
NASA spots asteroid that could hit Earth in 157 years
00:00:36 - Youtube video: 96TeyHbUiIs

LIVE: NASA unveils asteroid sample brought back to Earth last month
LIVE: NASA unveils asteroid sample brought back to Earth last month
01:29:43 - Youtube video: mZBAwB-Veu8

LIVE: NASA spacecraft carrying asteroid sample returning to Earth
LIVE: NASA spacecraft carrying asteroid sample returning to Earth
03:17:40 - Youtube video: RACeKE42vTE