Japanese space probe, size of a fridge, flies near asteroid in planet defence test
Japan's JAXA space agency successfully conducted a close-proximity fly-by of the asteroid Torifune using the Hayabusa2 probe. The mission aims to test planetary defense technologies capable of deflecting potentially hazardous space rocks.
Why it matters
Advancing planetary defense technology is critical for long-term Earth safety, building on previous successful deflection tests by international space agencies.
A Japanese space probe performed a fly-by of a near-Earth asteroid on Sunday, in a test mission for technology that could help protect the planet from space rocks.
The article provides a straightforward scientific report on a space mission.
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