Scientists have shared the first results of the analysis of particles of the asteroid Ryugu, the fragments studied have a number of unique properties
Scientists performed an initial analysis of samples of the asteroid Ryugu, which were obtained using the Hayabusa2 apparatus and were delivered to Earth in a special container on December 6, 2020. And we have already managed to share the first results obtained, which will be discussed in this material.
Asteroid Ryugu and its fragments on Earth
So, the asteroid, named 162173 Ryugu, is 900 meters in diameter and revolves around our star in an orbit located between Mars and Earth, sometimes crossing the Earth's orbit.
This object is assigned to the class of asteroids of the "C" type, which, most likely (according to the theoretical assumptions of scientists), consist of the so-called primary material (gas and dust), from which our solar system was formed billions of years ago back.
So back in 2019, the Japanese space module Hayabusa2 was sent to this asteroid, in front of which the task was to take samples of the asteroid Ryugu and, most importantly, return them to Earth for later studying.
The samples were successfully collected, and already on December 6, 2020, Ryugu's fragments were placed in a special sealed container and delivered to Earth in a descent capsule. Thus, about 5.4 grams of material came to Earth. In this case, the largest fragments have a diameter of 8 millimeters, and the smallest are only 1 millimeter.
What scientists managed to find out from the analysis of Ryugu fragments
So, the initial analysis showed that these samples are the oldest material that has ever been studied in laboratories. So far, the algorithms applied have not allowed even an approximate determination of the age of the fragments, but scientists hope that other methods will still allow us to determine at least the approximate time of formation asteroid.
Visually, the Ryugu fragments look like very black pieces of small stones mixed with the same black dust.
In order to completely eliminate the effect of the earth's atmosphere, the materials were stored either in a complete vacuum or in an environment filled with pure nitrogen. The scientists studied the samples using an optical microscope and other instruments to determine the degree of absorption and reflection of waves in various spectra.
As a result of this analysis, the scientists found that the samples reflect only 2-3% of the light flux incident on them. Also, scientists were surprised by the extremely high porosity (meaning that there are large voids in the material), which turned out to be significantly higher than that of other known carbonaceous meteorites.
In addition, a technique known as hyperspectral microscopy was used, which allowed a closer look at the composition of the asteroid samples.
Thus, scientists have established that rock samples are composed of the so-called "hydrated matrix". Traces of compounds that are rich in ammonia, traces of clay, etc. were also found. inclusions.
This is the primary data that scientists have shared on the pages of the journal Live Science. More information will allow further studies of the samples. So, further study of the organic compounds found in the samples will provide a clearer understanding of how the asteroid Ryugu was formed.
Well, we will wait for the next publications of scientists, and who knows what it will be possible to find out about the composition and history of our home with you - the solar system.
Did you like the material? Then rate it and don't forget to subscribe to the channel. Thank you for your attention!