NASA’s Psyche begins sustained electric-thruster cruise toward asteroid
NASA says Psyche is using its solar-electric propulsion nearly continuously after its Mars gravity assist, with asteroid arrival planned for summer 2029.
What the record says
NASA’s October 22 update says the spacecraft began sustained propulsion on September 28, with weekly pauses to communicate with Earth. The mission plans to operate its thrusters nearly 90% of the time during this cruise stage. Solar panels supply electricity, while xenon ions provide gentle thrust that builds speed over time.
Source details and supporting locations.
Practical next step
Read NASA’s Psyche updates for the spacecraft’s cruise progress and planned asteroid investigations.
Limits and what is not established
Psyche has not reached its target asteroid. Arrival in 2029 and the planned two-year prime science mission are future milestones; the asteroid’s possible identity as an ancient planetary core remains a scientific hypothesis.
Sources checked October 23, 2026. Later notices may change instructions or arrangements.