'Traveling at 1,35,000 kmph': NASA's Asteroid-bound Psyche spacecraft fires up Ion thrusters, begins journey
Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
Psyche Mission Update
NASA's Psyche spacecraft, on a mission to the metal-rich asteroid 16 Psyche, has activated its ion engines and is now traveling through the solar system using solar-electric propulsion.
Credit : NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU
Initial Launch Boost
Launched on October 13, 2023, Psyche received an initial boost sufficient to propel it over 190 million miles (300 million kilometres) into space, beyond Mars' orbit.
Ion Engines Activated
The spacecraft's ion engines, powered by converting sunlight into electricity via solar arrays, have now taken over for continuous acceleration. This technology involves expelling ionized xenon gas to create thrust.
Thrust Mechanics
Each ion thruster provides minimal pressure, akin to three coins pressing on a hand. In the vacuum of space, this small thrust accumulates, steadily accelerating Psyche.
Credit : NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU
Current Speed and Goals
Psyche is currently traveling at 84,000 miles (135,000 kilometres) per hour. The goal is to reach speeds of up to 124,000 miles (200,000 kilometres) per hour.
Credit : NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU
Mars Gravity Assist
In May 2026, Psyche will loop around Mars, using the planet's gravity to slingshot itself towards the asteroid 16 Psyche. The ion engines will be temporarily shut down during this manoeuvre.
Asteroid Arrival
The spacecraft is expected to reach the asteroid 16 Psyche in 2029. It will spend at least two years orbiting the asteroid to study its composition and history.
Credit : NASA
Scientific Instruments and Discoveries
Throughout its journey, Psyche has used instruments like its magnetometer and gamma-ray and neutron spectrometer to gather scientific data, including detecting particles from solar coronal mass ejections.
Credit : NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU
Advanced Communication Technology
Psyche is testing a new laser-based deep-space communication technology, achieving data transmission rates of 267 megabits per second from 226 million kilometres (140 million miles) away, comparable to home broadband speeds.
Credit : NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU
Mission Goals
Studying 16 Psyche, a fragment of an ancient planet's metallic core, aims to provide insights into the formation and interiors of rocky planets like Earth. Henry Stone, Psyche project manager at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, confirmed all mission-critical equipment is functioning well, ensuring the mission's progress.