Tianwen-2 makes series of burns on approach to asteroid, according to radio tracking
China's Tianwen-2 spacecraft has performed a series of small propulsive maneuvers to prepare for its July rendezvous with the asteroid Kamoʻoalewa. Radio tracking data suggests these adjustments utilize the probe's ion electric propulsion system.
Why it matters
This mission represents a significant step in deep-space exploration and asteroid sample return capabilities.
HELSINKI — China’s Tianwen-2 spacecraft has carried out a series of small propulsive maneuvers following a main burn June 7, setting up an asteroid rendezvous in July.
The report is a technical summary of space mission progress based on observational data.
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