Asteroid Psyche: The $100 Quadrillion Space Treasure Is Beginning to Rust

Recently, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has turned its gaze towards the enigmatic asteroid 16 Psyche, uncovering a surprising twist in its story. Once thought to be a treasure trove of precious metals, this asteroid, valued at a staggering $100,000 quadrillion, may be undergoing a process of rusting.

Short Story: What Do We Know About Asteroid Psyche?

Psyche, nestled in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, has long captivated scientists with its potential wealth. Measuring about 173 miles across, it was initially believed to be a metallic marvel, possibly the exposed core of a protoplanet. This theory sparked NASA’s Psyche mission, which aims to explore the asteroid up close.

JWST’s Surprising Discovery

JWST’s sophisticated infrared instruments have detected the presence of hydroxyls on Psyche’s surface. These molecules, made of oxygen and hydrogen, are often associated with rust when they interact with metals. This finding suggests that Psyche’s surface may not be as purely metallic as previously thought.

The presence of hydroxyls raises intriguing questions. Did they hitch a ride on meteorites that collided with Psyche, or did they form within the asteroid itself? If the latter is true, Psyche might have originated in the icy outer reaches of the solar system before journeying inward.

What Lies Ahead?

NASA’s Psyche mission, launched in October 2023, is on a trajectory to reach the asteroid by 2029. As the spacecraft approaches, it will delve deeper into Psyche’s composition and history, seeking answers to these cosmic questions.

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Why It Matters?

Understanding Psyche’s true nature could offer valuable insights into the building blocks of our solar system. By studying this potentially rusty relic, scientists hope to learn more about the processes that shaped Earth and other rocky planets.