This week saw an amazing first as the European Space Agency’s Rosetta orbiter successfully landed the Philae probe on the surface of an asteroid, 300 millions miles from Earth. Philae is already providing us with some interesting information. Initially the surface of the comet was thought to be lumpy and potato like, but based on images already sent back, there are far more pronounced features including boulders, craters, and cliffs. These features presented a hazard to the probe as the lander bounced twice after landing, ending up in an area that the mission control hasn’t been able to positively identify (they have a rough idea). Aside from the historic nature of the landing, is also provides us with an amazing opportunity to study a previously unexplored celestial body. Some scientists have even theorized that comets are responsible for bringing water to the newly formed Earth.
One of several early images sent back from Rosetta and Philae.
Therefore I Geek 