China’s Tianwen-2 probe is set to launch in 2025, aiming to collect samples from a near-Earth asteroid and explore a comet. The asteroid, known as Earth’s quasi-satellite, contains ancient materials that can provide insights into the solar system’s formation and evolution.
The comet, 311P, orbits between Mars and Jupiter, displaying characteristics of both comets and asteroids. Studying this object will help researchers better understand small space objects, filling gaps in their knowledge of the solar system. The launch site, Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan Province, is preparing for the mission.
The probe’s arrival marks a significant milestone, as it prepares to embark on its historic journey to explore these celestial bodies.
Source: https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-02-21/China-s-Tianwen-2-asteroid-sample-mission-arrives-at-launch-site-1BafxtVuH3q/p.html