PBS 6 Original Programming

OSIRIS-REx: Countdown to Launch

A half-hour AZPM original documentary providing an in-depth look at the science and scientists behind the asteroid sample return mission, OSIRIS-REx. It reveals the personal and scientific challenges overcome by the scientists responsible for the Asteroid Sample Return Mission. Watch the full documentary online, commercial-free.


OSIRIS-REx Retrospective, 2019

OSIRIS-REx, the University of Arizona led mission to collect a sample of the Asteroid Bennu and return it to earth in 2023 has had a busy year already. The spacecraft went into orbit on New Year’s Eve 2018 and is currently just over a mile above the asteroid. The team of scientists and engineers is working towards finding the perfect place to collect two-ounces of surface material next year. Here’s a look back at some of the highlights of the decade long mission.

Producer/Director: Tom Kleespie

What is OSIRIS-REx?

The first US mission to fly to, study, and retrieve a pristine sample of an asteroid and return it to Earth for further study.

The University of Arizona's Lunar and Planetary Laboratory is the lead organization in conceiving, designing and managing the operation of the mission. UA Lunar and Planetary Laboratory

When did it launch?

OSIRIS-REx successfully launched at 4:05 p.m. Arizona time on September 8, 2016. Watch video of the launch below:

What is OSIRIS-REx: Countdown to Launch?

OSIRIS-REx: Countdown to Launch reveals the personal and scientific challenges overcome by the scientists responsible for the Asteroid Sample Return Mission.

It premiered in the Fall of 2016 on PBS 6.

OSIRIS-REx Latest News

Bennu sample goes on display in TucsonBennu sample goes on display in Tucson
It is older than any rock found on the Earth or the Moon so far.
Engineers finally pop open OSIRIS REx sample containerEngineers finally pop open OSIRIS REx sample container
Scientists are getting access to the bulk of asteroid material collected by the spacecraft.
UA students share in OSIRIS-REx successUA students share in OSIRIS-REx success
They are taking a role developing experiments on the sample brought back from Bennu.
University of Arizona opens new astrobiology centerUniversity of Arizona opens new astrobiology center
It keeps UA at the forefront of research about objects gathered from space.
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