Planets and Moons  ID: 13555

How OSIRIS-REx will Steer Itself to Sample an Asteroid

In late October, the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft will navigate to asteroid Bennu’s surface for its first sample collection attempt. To do this, it will use an onboard image software known as Natural Feature Tracking (NFT) – a form of optical navigation that is completely autonomous. NFT guides the spacecraft by comparing an onboard image catalog with the real-time navigation images it takes during descent, looking for specific landmarks on Bennu’s surface in order to orient itself. This navigation technique allows the spacecraft to accurately target small sites while dodging potential hazards.
 

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Credits

James Tralie (ADNET Systems, Inc.):
Lead Producer
Lead Animator
Lead Editor

Krystofer Kim (USRA):
Animator

Kel Elkins (USRA):
Visualizer

Michael Moreau (NASA/GSFC):
Scientist

Kenny Getzandanner (NASA/GSFC):
Scientist

Ryan Olds (Lockheed Martin):
Scientist

Sandra Freund (Lockheed Martin):
Scientist

Lisa Poje (USRA):
Animator

Aaron E. Lepsch (ADNET Systems, Inc.):
Technical Support

Please give credit for this item to:
NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center