Asteroid exploration is the study and investigation of asteroids, which are small, rocky objects that orbit the Sun. Researchers study asteroids to better understand the formation and evolution of our solar system, as asteroids are believed to be remnants of the early solar system. Scientists also study asteroids to assess the potential for future missions to mine resources, deflect hazardous asteroids, or even one day colonize these celestial bodies. Exploration of asteroids involves sending spacecraft to observe, analyze, and potentially land on these objects to gather data and samples. This research area is important for advancing our knowledge of the universe and developing technologies for space exploration.