Probe "Hayabusa" took samples from asteroid

Japanese scientists were able to confirm that the resulting probe "Hayabusa" soil samples from the asteroid Itokawa - extraterrestrial origin.
This is the scientists said after a detailed study of more than a thousand brought probe particles. Doubts in the extraterrestrial origin of the dust were caused by the fact that the landing of the probe on the surface of the asteroid capsule sampling is not shooting as planned.




According to the Minister of Education and Science of Japan Yosiaki Takagi, "that the probe was able to deliver for the first time in the history of the Earth from the Moon does not matter, but from another celestial body - a significant success."



"I do not know how to describe what we have not even dreamed of. I was just overwhelmed with feelings, "- said the project manager Dzyunichiro Kawaguchi.



In 2005, the probe "Hayabusa" spent three weeks in the orbit of the asteroid Itokawa, and then landed on its surface to take soil samples.



The project, which has been spent about $ 200 million, several times was on the verge of a shutdown due to various technical problems - problems from the engine to the impact of solar flares.



However, each time the scientists managed to find a way out of the situation.

Samples to Earth with "Itokawa" Press were delivered in July this year in
special capsule that landed in Australia.



This photo shows a capsule with soil samples of the asteroid after landing. The world-renowned probe Hayabusa burned in the atmosphere before landing.



Japanese experts are working with a valuable cargo. At first, all was not clear whether the probe was able to capture the necessary material from the asteroid.

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