NASA's Psyche Spacecraft Engages Advanced Ion Thrusters for Deep Space Journey

The mission targets the metal-rich asteroid Psyche, with aims to unlock secrets of planet formation and test new space technologies.

Psyche's Hall thrusters, powered by ionized xenon, are propelling the spacecraft at 84,000 mph toward the asteroid belt.
The mission aims to study the metal-rich asteroid Psyche, believed to be the core of an early planet.
NASA successfully tested a laser-based deep space communication system with Psyche, marking a first for the agency.
The spacecraft will use a Mars gravity assist in 2026 to adjust its trajectory before reaching the asteroid in 2029.
Psyche's instruments, including a magnetometer and spectrometers, are functioning as expected after a six-month checkup.