Exploration of a Metal World - NASA's Psyche Mission

Embark on a fascinating 36-minute video interview with Dr. David Williams exploring the Psyche mission, a groundbreaking NASA endeavor to study a metal-rich asteroid. Delve into the mission's objectives, including investigating Psyche's composition, formation, and potential as a window into Earth's core. Learn about the spacecraft's instruments, the challenges of studying a metallic world, and the scientific goals driving this unique exploration. Discover the asteroid's size, potential for mining, and why an orbiter was chosen for the mission. Gain insights into the current status of the Psyche mission and receive valuable advice on pursuing a career in space exploration. This comprehensive discussion covers everything from the basics of planetary differentiation to the cutting-edge technology used in space missions, offering a captivating look at the frontiers of asteroid research and planetary science.

Intro to Topic & Interviewee
What is the Psyche Mission & Why Are We Doing it?
GSA Connects 2024 Meeting & Presentation
Why do we want to visit a ball of metal?
A Window into Earth’s Core!
Differentiation & Core Hypothesis
How Psyche lost its surface layers
When did Psyche lose its surface layers?
Science Goals & Objectives of Psyche Mission
Objective #1
Instruments on Psyche
Can we date the rocks on Psyche?
Objective #2
How Big is Psyche?
Objective #3
Objective #4
Objective #5
Mining on Psyche?
Why an Orbiter instead of Flyby or Lander?
How far along is the mission?
How to get started in Space Exploration!
Check out my Pulverizing Asteroids Interview!