James Webb Telescope Discovers Rust on Asteroid Psyche

Recent observations with the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) reveal that the metallic asteroid 16 Psyche may be rusting, challenging previous assumptions about its composition. Initially believed to be predominantly iron and nickel, new findings indicate the presence of hydroxyl groups, suggesting that water or water-bearing compounds may have interacted with the asteroid's surface. This could imply a more complex history for Psyche, which is thought to be the remnant of a protoplanet's core. The hydroxyls could have originated from meteorite impacts or formed within Psyche itself, hinting at its journey from beyond the asteroid belt. NASA's Psyche spacecraft, launched in October 2023, is set to arrive at the asteroid by mid-2029, promising to shed light on its chemical makeup and origins. These discoveries could provide significant insights into the early solar system and the formation of rocky planets like Earth.