Trending Now - Nasa's Psyche Mission to Utilize Mars for Gravity Boost

WHO:

Phys.org - NASA is the organization conducting the Psyche mission.

WHAT:

Phys.org - NASA's Psyche spacecraft will pass just 2,800 miles (4,500 kilometers) from Mars' surface.

NASA - The spacecraft will travel at a speed of approximately 12,333 mph (19,848 kph).

NASA - The gravity assist from Mars will help adjust the spacecraft's trajectory toward the metal-rich asteroid Psyche.

WHERE:

NASA - The Psyche spacecraft is approaching Mars, which is located in our solar system.

WHEN:

Phys.org - The gravity assist maneuver is scheduled for May 15, 2026.

NASA - A colorized image of Mars was captured on May 3, 2026, from a distance of about 3 million miles (4.8 million kilometers).

HOW:

Phys.org - The spacecraft will utilize Mars' gravitational pull to increase its speed and alter its path toward the asteroid Psyche.

(UPDATED May 9, 2026 13:20 UTC)

NASA is conducting the Psyche mission, with its spacecraft set to pass just 2,800 miles from Mars' surface on May 15, 2026. Traveling at an impressive speed of approximately 12,333 miles per hour, the spacecraft will use Mars' gravitational pull to adjust its trajectory toward the metal-rich asteroid Psyche. A colorized image of Mars was recently captured from about 3 million miles away, showcasing the planet's features as the spacecraft makes its approach.