First pictures from the Lutetia flyby

Before cutting off its high-rate data link, the Rosetta probe had time to beam back to Earth its first pictures from asteroid Lutetia.

Lutetia has been growing in size within Rosetta's field of view during the last hours of its approach. Credit: ESA 2010 MPS for OSIRIS team (MPS, UPD, LAM, IAA, RSSD, INTA, UPM, DASD, IDA)

These pictures were taken by the Osiris camera at a distance down to 80,000 km. The asteroid, the size of a French department, appears to be a relatively tourmented object on which some large  eroded craters can be spotted.

Lutetia, as seen from a distance of 80,000 km. Credit: ESA 2010 MPS for OSIRIS team (MPS, UPD, LAM, IAA, RSSD, INTA, UPM, DASD, IDA)

The high-rate data link was successfully restored after the flyby. Close-range pictures were unveiled by ESA at 23:00 CEST. On the pictures taken at 3,000 km from the asteroid, details down to 60 m can be seen. On some pictures, it is even possible to pinpoint what seems to be boulders on the surface.

The 3,000 km range flyby enabled to see many details on the surface. Credit: ESA 2010 MPS for OSIRIS team (MPS, UPD, LAM, IAA, RSSD, INTA, UPM, DASD, IDA)

The ground texture shows some strange grooves which might keep the scientists busy for weeks, months or even years. Credit: ESA 2010 MPS for OSIRIS team (MPS, UPD, LAM, IAA, RSSD, INTA, UPM, DASD, IDA)

More than 400 pictures were taken by the Osiris camera, but at the same time an impressive wealth of data was collected by Rosetta's other instruments. These data should provide precious information regarding the dust and gases that might surround Lutetia, about its inner structure, its magnetic field if any, its density, its  composition, etc.

The first results will be presented on Monday evening, during the special event organised by the Cité de l'Espace in Toulouse.

Farewell to Lutetia, as Rosetta is continuing its odyssey. Credit: ESA 2010 MPS for OSIRIS team (MPS, UPD, LAM, IAA, RSSD, INTA, UPM, DASD, IDA)