An "asteroid mission" refers to a space exploration journey or project specifically aimed at studying or collecting data from an asteroid. Full definition
[How NASA's Dawn Asteroid Mission Works (Infographic)-RSB- «The new observations of Vesta are an inspirational reminder of the wonders unveiled through ongoing exploration of our solar system,» said Jim Green, planetary division director at NASA Headquarters in Washington. (scientificamerican.com)
Although those missions could be seen as stepping stones to a later asteroid mission, many lunar scientists view the region as a destination in its own right (see «Moonstruck»). (scientificamerican.com)
Planetary Resources Development Corp. in Redmond, Washington: The «Arkyd Spacecraft Collaboration with NASA's Asteroid Initiative» study will determine how three classes of small, low - cost spacecraft being developed by Planetary Resources could be modified to enhance NASA's planned asteroid missions. (sciencedaily.com)