Comet 67P captured the attention of scientists ten years ago when it became the first comet to be orbited and landed on by a spacecraft. The European Space Agency (ESA) embarked on a mission to study this comet, known as Comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko, in hopes of unraveling the mysteries of our solar system’s formation.
Upon Rosetta’s arrival at Comet 67P in August 2014, scientists were thrilled to receive the first close-up photos of the comet, revealing its unique “rubber duck” shape. The mission’s cameras captured the comet’s two-lobed structure, a result of two comets colliding in the early solar system. This unexpected discovery set the stage for a decade of groundbreaking findings.
Rosetta’s observations of Comet 67P revealed a wealth of information about the comet’s composition, activity, and interaction with the solar wind. The probe detected organic material and Earth-like gases streaming from the comet, sparking theories about the origins of life-boosting ingredients on Earth. Scientists were also puzzled by the comet’s interaction with the solar wind, which created a larger-than-expected void in the solar magnetic field.
One of the most unexpected findings was the comet’s behavior when ejected dust returned to its surface, causing fluctuations in activity levels. Researchers noted that the comet’s surface texture varied in different regions, raising questions about the impact of heat and radiation from the sun.
After over a decade in space and two years of studying Comet 67P, the Rosetta spacecraft ended its mission with a deliberate crash into the comet in 2016. This epic finale provided scientists with unprecedented views of the comet’s surface and an ancient pit named Sais. The mission’s success was a testament to the dedication and hard work of the engineers and scientists involved.
Despite the end of the mission, the legacy of Rosetta lives on through its data, which continues to yield new discoveries. In 2021, Comet 67P made its closest approach to Earth in 200 years, offering scientists additional opportunities to study this cosmic wanderer. The mission’s impact extends beyond its operational years, with ongoing research and analysis revealing hidden insights about comets and the origins of our solar system.
As we look back on Rosetta’s scientific legacy, we are reminded of the incredible achievements and discoveries made possible by this ambitious mission. The journey of the Rosetta probe and its exploration of Comet 67P have left an indelible mark on our understanding of comets, the solar system, and the mysteries of the cosmos.
