Stuff To Blow Your Mind From the Vault: In the Name of Osiris
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May 3, 2025 Explore the cosmic adventure of NASA's OSIRIS-REx mission as it connects modern science with the ancient mythology of Osiris. Discover the intriguing survival tactics of Osiris bees, known for their unique parasitic behaviors, and their ties to Egyptian culture. Delve into challenges faced during the mission on asteroid Bennu and learn how mythology continues to influence science today. Plus, listen for captivating insights into the natural world, including herons and the complexity of ecosystems.
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OSIRIS-REx Asteroid Sample Return
- NASA's OSIRIS-REx mission touched down on asteroid Bennu in 2020 to collect surface material.
- The spacecraft performed a quick "touch-and-go," successfully gathering regolith before returning to Earth.
Yarkovsky Effect Alters Orbits
- The Yarkovsky effect influences asteroid trajectories by the anisotropic emission of infrared photons.
- This effect creates a small thrust altering orbits, complicating long-term path predictions.
Bennu Bird: Myth and Reality
- The Bennu bird in Egyptian myth is tied to creation, time, and renewal, inspiring the phoenix myth.
- This bird may be based on a real giant extinct heron, linking mythology and paleontology.
