Futurity · Space

Asteroid Bennu's Origin Linked to Early Solar System Dynamics

New analysis of samples from asteroid Bennu, collected by NASA's OSIRIS-REx mission, suggests a surprising origin and provides insights into the early Solar System.

Researchers analyzed isotopes in Bennu samples, revealing an isotopic fingerprint similar to asteroid Ryugu and CI meteorites, differing from other known celestial bodies.

Contrary to assumptions of outer Solar System formation, data suggests Bennu formed near the water-ice line, where inner and outer materials mixed, with ice binding dust.

This 'hybrid' composition is linked to Jupiter's early growth, which acted as a barrier, allowing fine dust from various regions to mix in the transition zone.

The scenario explains Bennu's water-rich material and its formation from fine dust, making it chemically similar to the Sun.

Bennu, largely unchanged since the Solar System's birth 4.5 billion years ago, may offer a glimpse into the original chemical mix that formed terrestrial planets.

Further research will investigate other asteroids' isotopic signatures and Jupiter's role. The team is interested in analyzing samples from future missions.

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