Genesis
AgencyNASA
Year2001-2004
TypeSolar wind sampling
RocketDelta II
CountryUSA
About the Mission
Collected solar wind particles at the L1 point for over two years. The sample capsule crashed in Utah in 2004 when its parachute failed to deploy. Scientists still extracted what they needed from the wreckage. Measured oxygen isotopes showing the Sun differs from Earth rocks. Proved sample return can survive even a hard landing.
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