Latest news with #TheFieldMuseum
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Science
- Yahoo
Space rock from asteroid Bennu arrives at Chicago Field Museum for rare study
The Brief The Field Museum received a rare, pristine sample of asteroid Bennu from NASA — a "time capsule" from the early solar system, untouched for 4.6 billion years. Scientists will study the carbon- and nitrogen-rich rock for clues about the origins of life on Earth. Bennu is considered a potentially hazardous asteroid, with a small chance of striking Earth in 2182, but researchers say it's too fragile to cause global destruction. CHICAGO - A new arrival has landed at Chicago's Field Museum — and it came from 40 million miles away. What we know The Field is one of the few research institutions in the country to receive a piece of an asteroid recently returned to Earth by NASA. "Oh, this is super exciting," said Field Museum Curator of Meteoritics Philipp Heck, as he peered at a vial containing a tiny black pebble. Museum scientists said receiving the sample is like winning the space lottery. Just days ago, they took delivery of the tiny chunk of asteroid Bennu. "It's a time capsule from the early solar system," said Heck. "That means it hasn't changed since it formed 4.6 billion years ago." In 2020, a NASA spacecraft intercepted the ancient asteroid — about a third of a mile in diameter — and punched out tiny shards of rock. That material was later returned to Earth in a sealed capsule, which preserved its scientific value. Unlike meteorites that burn through Earth's atmosphere and are contaminated with microbes, this asteroid sample is pristine. "The asteroid sample contains organic chemicals. And also it's rich in carbon and nitrogen," said Field Museum Resident Graduate Student Yuke Zheng. "So these elements and compounds, they are very essential to the beginning of life." Over the next few weeks, researchers will use advanced equipment to identify those building blocks, which may have been ingredients in the origin of life on Earth. "Bennu is essentially a piece of the pantry that contains the ingredients that went into the soup from which later the planet and life formed," explained Heck. There's another reason scientists are keeping a close watch on Bennu. It's classified as a potentially hazardous object, with a 1-in-1,750 chance of striking Earth on Sept. 24, 2182. The good news, according to Heck, is that the rock isn't very strong. "This is very fragile. It's mechanically weak rock. So I think even if that rock would collide with Earth, it wouldn't be a global killer." What's next The Field Museum will return its piece of the asteroid to NASA in August. Because of its tiny size and rarity, the sliver will not be displayed to the public.
Axios
06-03-2025
- Axios
Chicago Staycation Guide: Hidden gems, budget-friendly escapes
It's that time of the year when everyone is longing for some sun and dreaming of spring break. For those of us not going somewhere tropical, we've compiled some staycation ideas and close-to-home getaways. The great outdoors If you're looking to get some steps in and clear your head (and pores), head to the lakefront and relax in a portable sauna. For those seeking a more scenic adventure, a road trip to the Indiana Dunes, Beverly Shores, Starved Rock State Park, or other hiking gems is well worth the drive. Free museum days Whether you're into the arts or interested in exploring a museum, be sure to make the most of the free admission days available to city residents. The Art Institute is free every Monday, Thursday and Friday until March 14. The Field Museum every Wednesday through March 26. Adler Planetarium every Wednesday 4-10pm. DuSable Black History Museum every Wednesday. Feeling spring Colors In Bloom Step into spring at the Color Factory's latest immersive installation, "Colors in Bloom." Now through May 12 inside the Willis Tower. The Orchid Show The Chicago Botanic Garden always brings floral wonder and magic, and "India Blooms" is no exception. Every Friday, beginning this week, there are special cocktails and bites at Orchids After Hours. Garfield Park Conservatory The free flower and plant paradise is truly an oasis in the city. Listen to live jazz Friday at 6:30pm for their Women in Jazz series. New views Stay nearby and check out Chicago's great 'burbs. We compiled this list of great spots on the North Shore, western suburbs and Southland for fall, but these definitely apply to this winter blues period, too. And don't sleep on Northwest Indiana! 📧 What are some of your favorite staycations? Send them our way!
