The Hayabusa-2 probe, which has been in operation for nearly 12 years, is experiencing technical issues with its final remaining engine. Previously, three of the four original engines on the spacecraft failed during its mission.
JAXA is currently conducting an analysis of the probe's condition. Despite the propulsion problems, specialists believe the spacecraft retains the capability to continue its mission toward the target asteroid.
Launched in December 2014, the probe successfully collected soil samples from the asteroid Ryugu in February 2019. In December 2020, it delivered a capsule containing these materials to Earth, dropping it over Australia.
The spacecraft is currently on a trajectory toward the asteroid 1998 KY26, which measures approximately 30 meters in diameter. The mission plan aims for the probe to reach the asteroid and collect samples in July 2031.
