The timing of the flyby of asteroid Torifune by asteroid explorer Hayabusa2
Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency
The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has determined the following date and time for the flyby exploration of asteroid Torifune by the asteroid explorer Hayabusa2.
Schedule of asteroid Torifune flyby *1
- Date
- 5 July 2026 (Sunday)
:
- *1The flyby is planned at a distance of approximately 1km from the asteroid centre at a velocity of 5km/s relative to Torifune.
- *2The time may vary depending on operational conditions.
Asteroid explorer Hayabusa2
The Hayabusa2 was launched in December 2014 onboard the H-IIA Launch Vehicle No. 26. The spacecraft arrived at asteroid Ryugu in June 2018, achieving a number of world-first results that included the creation of an artificial crater on the surface of a small celestial body. Hayabusa2 returned to Earth in December 2020, successfully delivering a sample of the asteroid material.
Hayabusa2 returned to deep space to embark on an “Extended Mission”. On 5 July 2026, the spacecraft will conduct a flyby observation during a close pass to asteroid Torifune. The flyby aims to demonstrate high-precision orbital guidance and develop technology applicable to implementing intentional orbit changes to an asteroid. The final goal of the Extended Mission is to rendezvous with asteroid 1998 KY26 in 2031 and conduct exploration activities. These initiatives play an important role in the field of planetary defence, contributing to the future mitigation of asteroid impact risks.
Planetary defence refers to efforts to identify and monitor Earth-approaching asteroids and other celestial bodies at an early stage and take measures to prevent damage if there is a risk of collision with the Earth. Because such celestial impacts would pose a threat to all of humanity, transcending national borders, these efforts are being advanced through international cooperation centred on the United Nations. Hayabusa2 will contribute to planetary defence primarily from the following two perspectives: