LPSC2026 Report: Latest Results from Bennu and Ryugu Sample Research and Progress in Future Planetary Sample Curation
From March 16 to 20, 2026, the 57th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference (LPSC2026) was held in The Woodlands, near Houston, Texas, USA. About two and a half years have passed since the return of samples from asteroid Bennu, and comprehensive analytical results are now being reported. Numerous presentations compared Bennu and Ryugu samples, providing new insights into the origin and evolution of these two asteroids. Results were presented from a wide range of perspectives, including isotopic compositions, mineralogy, aqueous alteration, organic matter, internal structure, and surface processes. While Bennu samples share many characteristics with Ryugu samples and CI chondrites, differences were also reported in sample heterogeneity and the distribution of volatile components. These findings further suggest that, despite their many similarities, Bennu and Ryugu may not have experienced identical evolutionary histories.
The Astromaterials Science Research Group (ASRG) also presented two posters. Dr. Toru Yada, Associate Senior Researcher, presented an overview of JAXA's extraterrestrial sample curation activities from Itokawa to Ryugu and Bennu. The presentation introduced scientific knowledge gained through the curation and analysis of multiple asteroid-return samples, as well as the current status of JAXA's international Announcement of Opportunity (AO) program. Preparations for future missions, including the Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission and the Artemis program, were also presented. In particular, MMX, which aims to become the first mission to return samples from the Martian system, attracted considerable interest.
In my presentation, I introduced the current status of studies on cold curation for planetary samples in preparation for the Artemis program and future sample return missions. Techniques for handling and preserving volatile-rich and ice-bearing samples under cryogenic conditions will be essential for future exploration of the Moon, Mars, and even the outer Solar System. The presentation introduced concepts for future curation facilities, sample handling, and sample characterization under cryogenic conditions, together with the associated technical challenges. Discussions with scientists and engineers from around the world provided many valuable insights for future studies.
Throughout the conference, numerous sessions focused on lunar and Martian exploration. Active discussions covered lunar science in the Artemis era, as well as geological and material science studies in support of future Mars exploration. It was clear that the Artemis program and the broader Moon to Mars initiative are steadily moving from the conceptual stage toward practical implementation. The conference also reinforced the importance of curation for future lunar and Martian samples. We were reminded of the importance of steadily advancing preparations for JAXA's MMX mission to meet the expectations of the international scientific community.
The five-day conference provided an excellent opportunity to experience the forefront of Solar System exploration and sample science. We hope to apply the knowledge and discussions gained at LPSC2026 to our future research, development, and curation activities.
Written by Seiya Kawasaki, Researcher
