The pattern capsule endured an intense plunge by Earth’s ambiance that began at 10:42 a.m. EDT. (14:42 UTC). Reaching speeds of 43,000 kilometers per hour (27,000 miles per hour), the capsule’s exterior was anticipated to come across temperatures as much as 2,900 levels Celsius (5,300 levels Fahrenheit) — twice as hot as lava.
A drogue parachute opened to stabilize the capsule earlier than a big most important parachute unfurled shortly thereafter. A NASA TV commentator mentioned the primary parachute opened sooner than anticipated. The capsule then touched down on the desert flooring, concentrating on a touchdown zone measuring 58-by-14 kilometers (36-by-8.5 miles).
OSIRIS-REx staff members traveled by way of helicopters to the touchdown website, the place they’re anticipated to gather soil and air samples. These samples will assist rule out Earthly contaminants as scientists decide the make-up of the Bennu supplies.
Within the coming hours, the staff will raise the capsule right into a metallic crate, wrap it in protecting Teflon and a tarp, and bundle it right into a harness. A helicopter will then seize the harness and fly the capsule to a close-by short-term clear room. NASA plans to carry a post-landing information convention at the moment round 5:00 p.m. EDT (21:00 UTC), after the capsule is safely within the clear room.
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