Psyche Probe Captures Mars Images During Gravity-Assist Flyby

NASA activated cameras, magnetometers, and gamma-ray and neutron spectrometers aboard the Psyche spacecraft as it flew past Mars. The spacecraft came within 4,609 kilometers of the Martian surface during the gravity-assist maneuver. After the flyby, the probe increased its speed by one degree in orbital inclination and reached 1,600 kilometers per hour.

Mission scientists used the planet's terrain and atmosphere to check instrument performance. The data set includes thousands of images of the approach, surface, and atmosphere. Jim Bell, Psyche's imager instrument lead at Arizona State University, said the images will help calibrate the cameras and test early versions of image-processing tools.

Psyche is scheduled to arrive at its target asteroid in August 2029. Once in orbit, the spacecraft will map the metallic body to study its composition and structure. Scientists expect the measurements to provide information relevant to understanding the interior of Earth and other planets.