Title:
Mineralogical Investigations of Bennu-Like Analogues in Preparation for Sample Return
Agreement Number:
22EXPOSITO
Agreement Value:
$300,000.00
Agreement Date:
Apr 1, 2022 - Oct 4, 2026
Description:
As the initial letter in the acronym OSIRIS-REx signifies one of the core mission objectives is to return a sample of an asteroid to help us better understand the origins not only of the solar system but perhaps also ourselves. In preparation to study these precious samples we are beginning a multistage research program now focused on meteoritical and terrestrial analog materials. The fundamental purpose of this program is to establish the methods and protocols we will need to ensure not only that the maximum research benefits are gained from OSIRIS-REx material but also that the material is properly curated and that samples are preserved for future study.
The research program is divided into two fundamental areas: mineralogical and organics. Both areas will rely heavily on elemental and isotopic analysis to be performed by us in cooperation with our research consortium partners but the critical initial work of sample curation and sample categorization will be undertaken at the ROM.
Several of the carbonaceous chondrite meteorite types can serve as Bennu-like analogs. They will be invaluable in creating techniques and protocols for studying OSIRIS-REx sample return material. These types are the CV-CK, CM and the unique Tagish Lake CI2 meteorite. Each type will provide different analog materials: CAI and chondrules (CV-CK); mineral grains (olivine, pyroxenes, metal-sulfides, clays, serpentines, carbonates, phosphates, etc.), soluble and insoluble organic matter (CM and Tagish), etc. which will be our best approximations of what OSIRIS-REx may return. Since the mission will be returning regolith material, we will also be looking for xenolithic components from non-carbonaceous impactors such as ordinary chondrites, iron-nickel or achondritic meteorites. The ROM collection also contains a wide selection of all these types of meteorites for comparison. Additionally, the ROM mineral collection contains extensive suites of clay, serpentine group and related minerals which are encountered in aqueously altered carbonaceous chondrites such as the CM and CI types which will also serve as analogs.
Organization:
Canadian Space Agency
Expected Results:
The Research component of the programprovides financial support to organizations toconduct space related researchand development in priority areas. It willsupport targeted knowledge developmentand innovation to sustain and enhance theCanadian capacity to use space to addressnational needs and priorities in thefuture
Location:
Toronto, Ontario, CA M5S 1A1
Reference Number:
003-2021-2022-Q4-00046
Report Type:
Grants and Contributions
Additional Information:
Payment will be made over three financial years from 2021/22 to 2023/24.
Amendment Date
Oct 6, 2024
Recipient's Operating Name:
The Governing Council of the University of Toronto
Recipient's Legal Name:
The Governing Council of the University of Toronto
Program:
Class Grant and Contribution Program to Support Research, Awareness and Learning in Space Science and Technology
Program Purpose:
This program supports knowledge development and innovation in the CSA's priority areas while increasing the awareness and participation of Canadians in space-related disciplines and activities.
The Research Component aims to support the development of science and technology; foster the continual development of a critical mass of researchers and highly qualified people in Canada; and support information gathering and space-related studies and research pertaining to Canadian Space Agency priorities.