The Voyager program, introduced two remarkable interstellar probes, Voyager 1 and Voyager 2, launched in 1977. These intrepid explorers were strategically timed to capitalize on the rare alignment of Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune for close flybys while gathering invaluable data.
These pioneering spacecraft have already unveiled profound insights. Close-ups of Jupiter unveiled its intricate cloud formations, tempestuous storms, and the volcanic activity on moon Io. Saturn’s enigmatic rings displayed unexpected features like braids, kinks, and spokes, accompanied by numerous “ringlets.”
Voyager 2 ventured to Uranus, discovering a robust magnetic field and ten additional moons. At Neptune, it revealed three rings, six new moons, a planetary magnetic field, and intricate auroras, making it the sole spacecraft to explore the ice giants Uranus and Neptune.
As of 2023, the Voyagers continue to operate, venturing beyond the heliosphere into the realm of interstellar space.
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Roxanne
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