The Japanese spacecraft Hayabusa2 flew by asteroid 98943 Torifune at a record distance of 800 meters, photographing a curious two-lobed formation. This exciting discovery provides invaluable data on the composition of near-Earth bodies and the history of our solar system.
The Japanese probe Hayabusa2 achieved a historic flyby on July 5, 2026, passing just 800 meters from asteroid Torifune at over 18,000 km/h. As reported in Argentine media, the image revealed a fascinating snowman shape, providing key data for science and planetary defense.
The Japanese space agency JAXA captured stunning images of asteroid Torifune during a high-speed flyby. The spacecraft skimmed the space rock at under 800 meters, demonstrating capability for future planetary defense missions and leaving scientists amazed by its peculiar shape.
The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) successfully guided the Hayabusa2 probe to within 800 meters of asteroid Torifune. Traveling at 18,000 km/h, this planetary defense test demonstrates the extreme precision needed to navigate deep space and potentially deflect hazardous celestial objects in the future.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
