Scouting Mission to Asteroid 16 Psyche

16 Psyche is among the most massive asteroids in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. What makes this particular body exciting is that it is believed to be a metal world, perhaps the metal core of a destroyed planet. The metallic composition is iron and nickel plus vast amounts of gold, platinum and other precious minerals. With a size of 140 miles in diameter and a value estimated at $700 Quintillion, Psyche is a compelling target for future commercial asteroid mining operations. The first expedition is expected to be the NASA Psyche mission to scientifically explore the asteroid and assess the mineral content. arriving in 2026. Multiple instruments will analyze the elements, magnetic field, gravity and close-up imaging of Psyche. A new laster communication system will beam all this enticing data back to scientists and eager prospectors and miners on Earth.