Key facts
- Hayabusa2 probe conducted a close flyby of asteroid Torifune on Sunday, July 5, 2026.
- The probe came within approximately 800 meters of the asteroid.
- Hayabusa2 was traveling at a speed of 5 kilometers per second during the flyby.
- The mission is operated by Japan.
- The flyby is part of Hayabusa2's mission to study small celestial bodies.
The Hayabusa2 space probe, operated by Japan, successfully conducted a close flyby of the asteroid Torifune on Sunday, July 5, 2026. The probe achieved a proximity of approximately 800 meters to the asteroid during this maneuver. At the closest point of approach, Hayabusa2 was traveling at a speed of 5 kilometers per second relative to Torifune. This close encounter is a key part of the Hayabusa2 mission, which is designed to study small celestial bodies and gather data that can help scientists understand the formation and evolution of the solar system. The mission aims to provide insights into the composition and characteristics of asteroids, which are remnants from the early stages of solar system formation. The successful flyby demonstrates the precision and capability of the Hayabusa2 probe and its control systems.