Anatomy of DART

The simple box-shaped spacecraft contains just one instrument, but plenty of advanced tech

1 Roll Out Solar Arrays (ROSA)

Each of the two arrays measures 8.6 by 2.3 metres (28.22 by 7.55 feet) when extended. They will provide the solar power needed for DART’s electric propulsion system.

2 Didymos Reconnaissance and Asteroid Camera for Optical Navigation

The DRACO camera is based on the highresolution imager from New Horizons and will aid spacecraft navigation and visual measurements of Dimorphos.

3 NEXT-C engine

The NASA Evolutionary Xenon Thruster – Commercial solar-electric propulsion system utilises electric propulsion to power the spacecraft using energy from the Sun.

4 Radial Line Slot Array (RLSA)

The high-gain antenna enables highly efficient communication with the spacecraft.