Background

Psyche is believed to be an exposed metallic core of an early planetesimal, primarily composed of iron-nickel and silicates. Its outer rocky layers were likely stripped away during collisions that occurred billions of years ago, making it an opportunity to study core material, which is not possible on Earth. A spacecraft launched by NASA in 2023 is set to arrive at Psyche in 2029 to observe the surface. From that, scientists may be able to determine if conditions are favorable for sample extraction.

This project focuses on developing a system capable of acquiring and caching samples from multiple surface types on asteroid (16) Psyche in coordination with the sample retrieval team. The early-stage prototype developed by Team 501 serves as a proof-of-concept for a potential sampling method that could be integrated into future mission work.

Abstract

We are designing a system to collect metal and rock samples from the surface of asteroid Psyche. This work supports NASA’s Psyche mission, which studies a rare, metal-rich asteroid that may be the exposed core of an early planetesimal. Learning about Psyche can help scientists understand how planets form and evolve. Our goal is to gather useful samples from different surfaces and keep them clean and secure.

We work with Senior Design Team 502 which focuses on bringing the samples back to Earth. Because of this, our system must pass each sample safely and reliably to the return system. Our system collects samples, stores them, and prepares them for transfer.

We are designing a tool that breaks loose surface material, captures it, and places it into a sealed container. The system must also work in space, where there is almost no gravity, extreme cold, and no air. To meet these challenges, we studied past missions such as OSIRIS-REx and the Mars rover sampling systems. We then adapt the methods in these missions to a metal-rich surface.

We build and test a prototype on Earth using materials and setups that match what we expect to find on Psyche. This prototype is made up of a tool that combines drilling with a short gas release that can collect both loose dust and solid pieces. Using this method limits sample loss and reduces mixing between sites.

The design stores several samples, keeps each one sealed, and measures how much material is collected. The project shows a small, automated system that can support future missions to metal-rich asteroids. The system provides a clear path for collecting clean, well-preserved samples that can help scientists learn how planets form and change over time.