Hayabusa2 Probe's Last Working Ion Engine Fails
Japan's Hayabusa2 asteroid probe has experienced a failure in its final functioning ion engine. This occurs nearly 12 years after the probe's launch and following the completion of its primary mission.
Japan's Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has confirmed that the final working ion engine on the Hayabusa2 asteroid probe has failed, according to The Japan Times. This incident occurs approximately 12 years after the probe's launch in December 2014 and after it successfully returned samples from asteroid Ryugu to Earth in 2020.
Hayabusa2 was originally equipped with four ion engines. Engines A, C, and D had previously shown significant performance degradation or failure. Engine B became the primary source of propulsion for the probe's extended mission towards its next target, asteroid 1998 KY26.
Engine B experienced a malfunction in mid-August. JAXA attempted repairs, but the engine could not be restored to operation. An inspection revealed that the engine's ion source had failed, though its neutralizer remained functional. JAXA is exploring options to combine parts from other engines to create a working unit.
The probe's operational lifespan has significantly exceeded its design life. JAXA has not yet confirmed whether Hayabusa2 will be able to reach asteroid 1998 KY26 in 2031. The outcome depends on the overall aging and endurance of the probe's components.