Water Detected on Largest Metallic Asteroid in Solar System (Psyche)

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Water Detected on Largest Metallic Asteroid in Solar System (Psyche)

Scientists have discovered possible evidence for water-rich minerals on the surface of the largest metallic asteroid in the solar system, according to a study by the U.S. Geological Survey and NASA.

The asteroid, called Psyche, is 186 miles across and is made of almost pure nickel-iron metal. It is thought to be the remnant core of a planetary embryo that was mostly destroyed by impacts billions of years ago.

Previous observations of Psyche had shown no evidence for water-rich minerals on its surface. However, new observations from the NASA Infrared Telescope Facility in Hawaii show evidence for water and/or hydroxyl on its surface. Results are published in The Astronomical Journal.

While the source of these water molecules on Psyche remains a mystery, scientists propose a few possible mechanisms for their formation. It is possible that water-rich minerals detected on Psyche might have been delivered to its surface by carbonaceous asteroids that impacted Psyche in the distant past.

More: https://www.usgs.gov/news/water-detected-largest-metallic-asteroid-solar-system