The magazine MAQ September 2018 MAQ Magazine November 2018 | Page 295

This mission aims to better our understanding of our solar system’s origins and the effects these asteroids may have on our planet. Samples from the C-type asteroid contain carbonaceous chondrites, which are the oldest types of rock pieces found in our solar system. Consisting of organic, hydrated minerals, they could help scientists unlock answers to our solar system.

Asteroids are a potential threat to our planet, which is why agencies like JAXA and NASA have taken an interest in monitoring and exploring these objects. While Hayabusa 2 hopes to aid in a greater understanding of these deep space objects, it also plans to make detailed observations of the 1999 JU3 asteroid in an effort to protect our planet from future threats.

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