In late August, the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft will navigate to asteroid Bennu’s surface for its first sample collection attempt. To do this, it will use an onboard image software known as Natural Feature Tracking (NFT) — a form of optical navigation that is completely autonomous. NFT guides the spacecraft by comparing an onboard image catalog with the real-time navigation images it takes during descent, looking for specific landmarks on Bennu’s surface in order to orient itself. This navigation technique allows the spacecraft to accurately target small sites while dodging potential hazards.
ROLES: Lead Producer, Lead Animator, Lead Editor
This video is public domain and along with other supporting visualizations can be downloaded from the Scientific Visualization Studio at: https://svs.gsfc.nasa.gov/13555
AWARDS/SELECTIONS:
Finalist in Documentary Category: Bordeaux Short Film Festival
Official Selection: Bordeaux Short Film Festival
Official Selection: Sci-On! Film Festival
Finalist in Documentary Category: Sci-On! Film Festival
Best Space Exploration Film: Sci-On! Film Festival