The NASA Psyche spacecraft is set to receive a significant boost from Mars on May 15, 2026. It will fly past the planet at an altitude of approximately 2,800 miles (4,500 kilometers), traveling at speeds of about 12,333 mph (19,848 kph). This gravity assist will aid the spacecraft in adjusting its trajectory toward the metal-rich asteroid Psyche, a unique body within our solar system.
Psyche’s Mission Overview
Launched on October 13, 2023, the Psyche spacecraft operates using a solar-electric propulsion system powered by xenon gas. This innovative approach allows the spacecraft to gradually accelerate over the extended course of its mission. By utilizing Mars’ gravitational pull, Psyche’s mission planners aim to conserve propellant, making the journey toward the asteroid more efficient.
Scientific Objectives of the Flyby
- The Mars flyby will enable the calibration and operation of Psyche’s scientific instruments.
- Imaging data will be collected using the spacecraft’s multispectral imager, providing thousands of observations of Mars.
- Initial unprocessed images of a starfield, featuring a distant view of Mars, began arriving on May 7, 2026.
- Raw images will be processed to enhance brightness and contrast, with a time-lapse of the flyby expected soon.
Sarah Bairstow, the mission planning lead at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, confirmed that the spacecraft is on track for the flyby. This opportunity allows for calibration with a significant celestial body, larger than previous targets during the mission.
The Imaging Approach to Mars
As Psyche approaches Mars, it will observe the planet under unique lighting conditions. Jim Bell, the lead imager instrument specialist from Arizona State University, noted that the spacecraft will capture Mars from its night side, presenting a thin crescent illuminated by sunlight. This will create opportunities for both calibration and stunning visual documentation.
- Mars may exhibit a faint dusty ring formed from micrometeorite impacts on its moons, Phobos and Deimos.
- The Sun’s position might enhance the visibility of scattered dust in the processed images.
The Psyche team will also conduct a “satellite search” during the flyby. This will prepare the crew for a similar examination of possible moonlets around the asteroid Psyche.
Monitoring and Data Collection
During its flyby, Psyche will utilize its magnetometer to study Mars’ magnetic field and a gamma-ray and neutron spectrometer to monitor cosmic ray flow. Lindy Elkins-Tanton, principal investigator for the mission, emphasized that the primary purpose of the flyby is to utilize Mars for trajectory alterations. However, additional data collection is a beneficial aspect of this operation.
Synchronous Data Collection
To ensure the success of the flyby, the mission team will be tracking radio signals through NASA’s Deep Space Network (DSN). Adjustments in the spacecraft’s speed will be indicated by shifts in the Doppler signals as Psyche moves by Mars. This will provide insights into its new trajectory post-flyby.
Several existing Mars missions, including NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter and rovers like Curiosity and Perseverance, will offer critical complementary data. Synchronizing these observations with Psyche’s data will enrich the calibration of its instruments and improve communications protocols for future Mars-bound missions.
