NASA Shifts Genesis Solar Wind Collection to Preservation Mode

NASA has announced a major shift regarding the Genesis Solar Wind Collection, moving from active sample collection to a preservation mode. This decision, stemming from a comprehensive assessment of current priorities, resources, and budget constraints, aims to ensure the long-term integrity of the collection while accommodating ongoing scientific needs.

While in preservation mode, NASA will continue to safeguard the Genesis collection, which has played a significant role in solar science and our understanding of the Solar System. The agency will maintain existing loan agreements for samples currently allocated and will accept returned samples. However, it will cease the allocation of new samples and additional characterization work.

This transition reflects a notable decline in sample requests for Genesis materials in recent years. According to NASA, the decision is necessary to allocate resources more effectively and to support broader scientific endeavors, including future sample return missions. Jemma Davidson, Astromaterials Curator, expressed understanding of the disappointment this may cause among researchers involved with the Genesis Collection. She reassured stakeholders that the integrity of the collection will remain a priority, with the possibility of reopening for requests in the future.

Requests for Genesis samples will be accepted until September 5, 2025. The announcement highlights NASA’s commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and the continued support of the Astromaterials Acquisition and Curation Office.

Celebrating 20 Years of Genesis

The announcement coincides with recent celebrations of the 20th anniversary of the Genesis sample return mission, held at the Lunar and Planetary Science conference in Houston. During this event, scientists presented 11 oral and six poster presentations, illustrating the importance of sample return missions in achieving significant scientific objectives.

Don Burnett, the Principal Investigator of the Genesis project, acknowledged the invaluable contributions of Kuni Nishiizumi, describing his efforts as “heroic.” Presenters noted unexpected discoveries stemming from Genesis samples, including insights into heliophysics and space weathering. Younger scientists participated actively, exchanging ideas and fostering collaboration.

Ongoing research utilizing Genesis samples is promising. For instance, the novel application of secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) data is enhancing the statistical resolution of differences in solar wind velocity, which is crucial for solar modeling.

To support this research, NASA recently installed a Leica optical microscope capable of 3-D stacking of images. This technology will facilitate the characterization of damage or small particles on collectors, contributing to the ongoing analysis of the samples.

As of now, 63 implant standard reference pieces have been incorporated into the Genesis database, with a variety of collector materials being analyzed, including silicon and sapphire. The next steps involve developing criteria for sample control and distribution to ensure effective management of the collection.

For researchers interested in accessing the Genesis samples, NASA provides an online catalog and a sample request form. Interested parties are encouraged to reach out to Judith Allton or Carla Gonzalez to arrange meetings for further discussions.

NASA continues to emphasize its commitment to scientific advancement and the importance of the Genesis Collection in understanding our solar environment.