Asteroid Bennu continues to amaze scientists with its secrets. Recent studies have revealed that Bennu contains stardust older than the solar system itself. This discovery positions Bennu as a true cosmic time capsule, holding clues to the origins of planets, including Earth.
What Makes Bennu So Special?
Researchers found that some of the material inside Bennu predates the formation of our sun and planets. These ancient dust particles, known as presolar grains, formed from dying stars and supernovae long before our solar system emerged. Scientists state, “Bennu is a time capsule of the material that was throughout the solar system.” This means studying the asteroid helps us understand how planets and life may have formed billions of years ago.
Why This Matters for Space Exploration
The presence of these ancient grains on Bennu offers an exciting opportunity for astronomers. By analyzing them, researchers can unlock secrets about the early universe and the building blocks of life. The findings also highlight the importance of ongoing missions like NASA’s OSIRIS-REx, which brought samples from Bennu back to Earth for detailed analysis.
Sources:
