Scientists used advanced 3D simulations to explore how massive impacts shaped the metallic asteroid 16 Psyche—believed to be the exposed core of an ancient protoplanet.<br /><br />The study reveals that internal porosity plays a critical role in crater formation and material distribution, offering new insights into planetary formation and the early evolution of the solar system. These findings await confirmation from NASA’s Psyche mission, set to arrive in 2029.<br /><br />Thank you for listening to Bedtime Astronomy — your guide to the cosmos. New episodes on space exploration, NASA missions &amp; the latest astronomy breakthroughs.<br /><br />This episode includes AI-generated content.