The sample container separates from the spacecraft during the Earth encounter. The spacecraft performs a manoeuvre to return to an escape trajectory while the c

The sample container separates from the spacecraft during the Earth encounter. The spacecraft performs a manoeuvre to return to an escape trajectory while the container falls to Earth. There's a graphic showing the re-entry procedure at http://www.hayabusa2.jaxa.jp http://www.hayabusa2.jaxa.jp - the 'TCM' points are where adjustments are made to trajectory, the final one sending the spacecraft back into space.