small body exploration

Small body exploration involves sending spacecraft to study objects like asteroids and comets—tiny celestial bodies that orbit the Sun. These missions help scientists understand their composition, structure, and origins, offering clues about the early solar system. By closely examining these small bodies, we learn about their potential impact hazards, resources such as water and minerals, and improve planetary defense strategies. These missions often involve detailed observations, sample collection, and sometimes landing on or orbiting the object, advancing our knowledge of the building blocks of our solar system and beyond.