Flyaround video of Vesta as seen from low orbit by Dawn

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The discussion centers on a "flyaround" video of the asteroid Vesta captured by NASA's Dawn spacecraft. Participants express curiosity about Vesta's mineral value while emphasizing that Ceres, a dwarf planet with a potential water-ice mantle, is of greater interest due to its size and resources. The Dawn spacecraft is set to transition from Vesta to Ceres in approximately a year, prompting excitement for high-resolution images of Ceres. There is speculation about the light material observed on Vesta possibly being water ice. Overall, the conversation highlights the scientific intrigue surrounding both celestial bodies and their potential resources.
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Marcus, thanks for posting the link.
 


Wonder what the mineral value of Vesta is.
 


Radrook said:
Wonder what the mineral value of Vesta is.

Are you kidding? the real prize is CERES which is twice the diameter and is estimated to have a water-ice outer mantle. Although in the asteroid belt, Ceres is classified as a (dwarf) planet.

As I expect you know, the Dawn spacecraft is scheduled to switch on its ion drive and spiral out from Vesta in about 12 months from now, so it can move over to Ceres.
 



Marcus, an absolutely fantastic video link!, thanks.

High resolution images similar to this of the dwarf planet Ceres would be absolutely awesome!
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marcus said:
...the real prize is CERES which is twice the diameter and is estimated to have a water-ice outer mantle.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-17481911

I noticed the photo of light and dark material in a photo of Vesta in this article. Is there any reason why the light material couldn't be water ice?

Respectfully submitted,
Steve
 

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