China is gearing up to launch its first asteroid sample-return mission, Tianwen-2, from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan province, with preparations underway for a launch in the first half of 2025.

After the sample collection, the reentry module will bring the samples back to Earth, while the orbiter will continue its journey to study the main-belt comet 311P/PANSTARRS.

The robotic probe for Tianwen-2 has arrived at the launch facility, and pre-launch preparations are proceeding smoothly, as confirmed by the China National Space Administration (CNSA).

The mission aims to explore the asteroid 2016 HO3, also known as 469219 Kamo'oalewa, which is recognized as the smallest and closest-known quasi-satellite of Earth, first detected in April 2016.

Tianwen-2 will collect samples from Kamo'oalewa and is expected to deliver them back to Earth around 2027.

Kamo'oalewa is believed to be a fragment of the Moon, and the spacecraft will employ two sampling techniques: touch-and-go (TAG) and an anchor-and-attach system with drills.

The mission aims to gather between 200 and 1,000 grams of samples to analyze the asteroid's mineral content and origins.

Tianwen-2 features a probe that includes an orbiter and a reentry module, which will collect surface samples using a mechanical arm before returning to Earth.

The spacecraft is also scheduled to rendezvous with comet 311P, expected to arrive around 2034, to investigate its characteristics and activity.

Studying 311P, which exhibits properties resembling comets but behaves like an asteroid, could provide valuable insights into the structure and evolution of small celestial bodies.

Tianwen-2 is part of China's broader deep space exploration efforts, following the successful Tianwen-1 Mars mission and paving the way for future missions focusing on Mars and Jupiter.

Chinese researchers advocate for asteroid missions, emphasizing their potential for significant discoveries and technological advancements, which aligns with the goals of the Tianwen program.