First Look at Kamoʻoalewa
The Tianwen-2 probe, launched by the China National Space Administration, has successfully arrived at the near‑Earth asteroid Kamoʻoalewa after a multi‑year journey. Initial images depict the object as a small, highly elongated rocky body, suggesting a rapid rotation period.
Mission Profile
Launched on 29 May 2025 from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, Tianwen-2 traveled millions of kilometres to intersect Kamoʻoalewa’s orbit, which resides in a 1‑year co‑orbital configuration with Earth.
Sample‑Return Objective
The primary goal of the mission is to collect surface and subsurface material for return to Earth, aiming to improve understanding of the formation of near‑Earth asteroids and the early Solar System.
Next Phases
Following the imaging phase, the spacecraft will enter a close orbit around Kamoʻoalewa to acquire samples. The return segment is scheduled for 2028, when the capsule will re‑enter Earth’s atmosphere.