Core Viewpoint - The successful launch of the Tianwen-2 probe marks China's first asteroid sample return mission, aiming to explore the near-Earth asteroid 2016HO3 and the main-belt comet 311P over a mission period of approximately ten years [4][11]. Group 1: Mission Overview - The Tianwen-2 mission is designed to visit two celestial bodies: the near-Earth asteroid 2016HO3 and the main-belt comet 311P, focusing on their morphology, material composition, internal structure, and potential ejections [3][11]. - The mission aims to enhance understanding of the origins and evolution of the solar system, as well as provide insights into Earth's evolutionary processes [12][13]. Group 2: Launch Details - The Tianwen-2 probe was successfully launched on May 29 at 1:31 AM from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center using the Long March 3B rocket, which is noted for its high reliability and performance [4][5]. - The Long March 3B rocket has a payload capacity of 5.55 tons to geostationary transfer orbit, making it suitable for the Tianwen-2 mission [5][7]. Group 3: Technical Aspects - The mission consists of 13 flight phases, including launch, asteroid transfer, close approach, sampling, and return to Earth, with the return capsule expected to land by the end of 2027 [8][9]. - The Tianwen-2 probe is equipped with 11 scientific payloads, including cameras, spectrometers, and radar, to conduct comprehensive studies of the target celestial bodies [13]. Group 4: Scientific Significance - The exploration of 2016HO3 is particularly valuable as it is a stable quasi-satellite of Earth, located approximately 18 to 46 million kilometers away, making it accessible for the mission [12]. - The main-belt comet 311P presents unique research opportunities due to its dual characteristics of asteroid-like orbits and comet-like physical features, which could provide insights into the formation of small celestial bodies [13].