Psyche

asteroid

Also known as: 16 Psyche

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Last updated

July 16, 2026

Quick Summary

Psyche is a metal-rich asteroid located in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. Discovered in 1852, it is named after the mythological princess Psyche. The asteroid is approximately 278 km in diameter and has a density that suggests it is not solid iron, but may contain large areas of metal on its surface, possibly from a forming planetary core.

The Psyche spacecraft, launched in October 2023, is scheduled to orbit Psyche for 26 months starting in August 2029. This mission aims to be the first exploration of a metal-rich asteroid and could provide insights into planetary cores. The spacecraft utilizes advanced Hall-effect thrusters and is equipped with instruments to study the asteroid's composition, magnetic field, and internal structure.12

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Psyche
Psyche will be the first of the metal-rich asteroids to be explored by a spacecraft. The Psyche spacecraft will orbit the asteroid for 26 months.
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Psyche will be the first of the metal-rich asteroids to be explored by a spacecraft. The Psyche spacecraft will orbit the asteroid for 26 months.
Read More