Touching the Asteroid

NOVA brings you stories from the frontlines of science and engineering, answering the big questions of today and tomorrow, from how our ancestors lived, to whether parallel universes exist, to how technology will transform our lives. Visit the official website to watch full-length documentaries, or explore our world through short-form video, on our digital publication NOVA Next.

RMPBS Passport

Please log in to your PBS Passport account to watch this video

Become a Member

Touching the Asteroid

Season 47 Episode 15 | 53m 32s | CC

In October 2020, a NASA spacecraft called OSIRIS-REx attempts to reach out and grab a piece of an asteroid named Bennu to bring it back to Earth. The OSIRIS-REx team has just three chances to extend its spacecraft’s specialized arm, touch down for five seconds, and collect material from the surface of Bennu.

NOVA

Watch more episodes

53:32

NOVA

Beyond the Elements: Life

Discover the fascinating chemistry that makes our world and everything in it—including us.

53:21

NOVA

Dog Tales

Follow the epic journey of dog domestication and see what science says about dogs’ love.

53:21

NOVA

Cat Tales

Goddess, demon, house pet? What does science say about the human relationship with cats?

National Corporate funding for NOVA is provided by Carlisle Companies and Viking Cruises. Major funding for NOVA is provided by the NOVA Science Trust and PBS viewers.

Subscribe to Our Newsletters

Get trusted Colorado stories, programs, and events from Rocky Mountain PBS straight to your inbox.

Set Your Preferences >