April 1 marks the completion of solar wind sample collection for the Genesis mission, culminating the science collection phase of the mission. The spacecraft is now ready to begin its million mile journey homeward.

On May 2, 2004, Genesis will conduct an Earth flyby as it follows the planned trajectory for its return to Earth on September 8, 2004, and rendezvous with a specially equipped helicopter for a dramatic mid-air capture of the sample return capsule.

Genesis Spacecraft Super Highway to Earth

After Genesis returns to Earth, scientists will study these microscopic particles to learn more about the Sun's composition. Astronomers already know that the Sun consists mainly of hydrogen and helium, but it has other elements as well. Genesis will provide detailed counts of these elements.

The Genesis particles also will help scientists learn more about the planets, moons, comets, and asteroids that orbit the Sun. All of these objects were made from the same cloud of material that produced the Sun, so understanding more about the Sun will reveal more about the rest of the solar system. Even though the total amount of material Genesis carries is tiny, under a gram, scientists will have plenty to keep them busy for decades.

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