Hayabusa
The First Asteroid Sample Return
Hayabusa rendezvoused with asteroid Itokawa and returned microscopic particles to Earth, proving critical technologies for later asteroid sample-return missions.
Object type
Asteroid sample return
Target
Asteroid Itokawa
Known for
First asteroid samples returned to Earth
TransitSatellite connection
Hayabusa connects asteroid rendezvous, ion propulsion, autonomous operations, re-entry capsules, and the later Hayabusa2 mission.
Objective
Rendezvous, sample, and return
Hayabusa was designed to meet Itokawa, characterize the asteroid at close range, collect surface material, and send a sample-return capsule back to Earth.
Engineering
A difficult deep-space technology demonstration
The spacecraft relied on ion propulsion and autonomous proximity operations, and it overcame multiple anomalies during a mission that became as much an engineering achievement as a science mission.
Legacy
The foundation for later sample return
Particles recovered from Itokawa proved that asteroid material could be returned for laboratory study and directly informed Hayabusa2 and the broader modern sample-return program.
TransitSatellite connections
Related missions, rockets & people
Continue exploring
Follow the connected story
Continue exploring
Explore more about Hayabusa
Books, audiobooks, and resources connected to this story. Follow an individual account or explore the wider history.
Affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. TransitSatellite may earn a commission when you buy through these links.
Compare the author, subject coverage, reading level, and edition on the retailer site.
Amazon search · affiliate link
Search results may include related subjects. Check the title, narrator, and audio format before choosing.
Amazon search · affiliate link