All geological features on Bennu are named after various species of birds and bird-like figures in mythology.[1] The first features to be named were the final four candidate OSIRIS-REx sample sites, which were given unofficial names by the team in August 2019.[2] On March 6, 2020 the IAU announced the first official names for 12 Bennu surface features, including regiones (broad geographic regions), craters, dorsa (ridges), fossae (grooves or trenches) and saxa (rocks and boulders).[3]
Abundant fine-grained material with a large variation in color. Primary sample collection site.[5]
Kingfisher
11°N 56°E
A relatively new crater with the highest water signature of all four sites.
Osprey
11°N 80°E
Located on a low albedo patch with a large variety of rocks. Backup sample collection site.[5]
Sandpiper
47°S 322°E
Located between two young craters, located in rough terrain. Minerals vary in brightness with hints of hydrated minerals.
On December 12, 2019, after a year of mapping Bennu's surface, a target site was announced. Named Nightingale, the area is near Bennu's north pole and lies inside a small crater within a larger crater. Osprey was selected as the backup sample site.[5]
IAU named features
Global mosaic of Bennu showing the locations of the first 12 named surface features
List of official IAU-named Bennu surface features[6]
