NASA's Psyche spacecraft gets gravity assist from Mars

May 16, 2026

Reported by AI

NASA's Psyche spacecraft flew past Mars on May 15, using the planet's gravity to gain speed and adjust its course. The maneuver brought it closer to Mars than either of the planet's moons.

The spacecraft passed within 2,800 miles of Mars at a speed of 12,300 mph during its closest approach around 3:30 p.m. Eastern time. This distance was nearer than the orbit of Phobos, which circles Mars from 3,700 miles away. The flyby was a planned gravity assist designed to conserve the xenon gas used by the solar-electric ion thruster system.

Dramatic liftoff of NASA's SLS rocket carrying Artemis II astronauts on the first crewed lunar flyby mission in over 50 years.

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NASA's Psyche spacecraft is scheduled to pass within 2,800 miles of Mars on May 15 to gain a gravitational boost toward its target asteroid. The maneuver will increase the probe's speed while allowing tests of its scientific instruments.

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Researchers at the University of Arizona simulated the formation of a large crater on metal-rich asteroid 16 Psyche to predict its internal structure ahead of NASA's arriving spacecraft. The study highlights the role of porosity in crater shapes and tests two possible compositions: a layered metallic core with rocky mantle or a uniform metal-silicate mix. Findings, published in JGR Planets, will aid interpretation of mission data expected in 2029.

May 16, 2026 04:32

NASA's Psyche spacecraft gets gravity assist from Mars

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