Across the Universe. The first Italian temporary exhibition of two Ryugu asteroid returned samples

Sample return missions are specifically designed to bring back to Earth samples (e.g., gases, dust, and rocks) collected from celestial bodies. The analysis of these pristine materials in terrestrial laboratories significantly enhances our understanding of the origin and evolution of the Solar System. Moreover, these missions offer unparalleled opportunities to promote education and public engagement in space and planetary sciences as well as research on the origin of life. This work describes the first Italian temporary exhibition of asteroidal (Ryugu) returned samples held at the Natural History Museum “La Specola” of the Firenze University Museum System in March 2024.