OSIRIS-REx Asteroid Rendezvous

November 29, 2018

In an approach phase that began in August 2018, OSIRIS-REx (ORX) has been performing numerous Asteroid Approach Maneuvers (AAM) in preparation for its arrival at the asteroid Bennu on December 3, 2018. Shortly after arrival at Bennu, ORX will begin a sensing campaign to survey the surface for asteroid plumes and natural satellites, determine the asteroid’s global spectral, thermal, and geological properties, as well as determine candidate sample sites for its sample return specimen.

Modelled in FreeFlyer® below is the trajectory, since launch, as well as an “artist” rendition of approach and sensing campaign.


*Note: the Bennu Capture trajectory shown here is not the known intended trajectory, but just a simplified visual representation of a capture trajectory.

FreeFlyer allows you to import SPICE files for CelestialObjects, such as Bennu, import 3D models to visualize your Spacecraft object, and add an unlimited number of sensor objects attached to the spacecraft to analyze spacecraft field of view on the asteroid.

FreeFlyer comes packed with B-plane targeting for hyperbolic trajectory arrival, custom celestial objects, and much more for any interplanetary analysis design needs!

Demo FreeFlyer for FREE

> View FreeFlyer Blog