Asteroid SHOCK: Watch INCREDIBLE moment spacecraft BOUNCES off Ryugu asteroid

The Japanese spacecraft will attempt at least one more descent to asteroid Ryugu’s rocky surface before beginning the long journey back to Earth in December.

The disturbed asteroid debris collected by Hayabusa 2 will be returned to Earth for inspection, although it won’t land until 2020, when it lands in Australia.

It is hoped Hayabusa 2 will bring with it intact and protected samples of Ryugu’s surface – which is hoped will reveal the early formation of the universe.

Asteroid Ryugu is thought to be a remnant of the early solar system’s birth, so understanding it’s geology could provide vital clues to piece together the solar systems.

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