Voyager 2’s brief flyby of Uranus in 1986 provided much of what astronomers know about it; yet, its brief encounter also left behind surprises which are still being researched today by scientists. Now, an influential group of scientists have proposed that NASA make exploring this mysterious ice giant a top priority. However, which instruments should…
Juno contains instruments designed to explore Jupiter’s atmosphere, magnetic field and gravity as well as its three largest moons – Ganymede, Europa and Callisto. Furthermore, Juno can now observe Jupiter’s polar auroras like never before! Juno features not only science equipment but is also decorated with three aluminum Lego figures depicting Galileo and his telescope….
Since the 1960s, robot spacecraft have made repeated visits to Mars’ surface and orbit. Their findings revealed a planet featuring mountains, canyons, and the largest volcano in our solar system. Rovers such as Spirit and Opportunity explored rocks to gain insight into what composes this world and to look out for signs of water. Spirit…
For spacecraft to reach Mars, they must first escape Earth’s gravity by using powerful rocket fuel and launch at exactly the right moment – both planets orbit around the Sun at different speeds and distances; every 26 months or so they come closer together, making travel to Mars much simpler. Spirit A six-wheeled vehicle equipped…
Forty-seven years ago, Neil Armstrong and Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin made history when they set foot on the Moon in one of the most advanced spacecraft available at that time – Apollo 11. Now anyone with internet access can explore Apollo 11 command module “Columbia” in high resolution 3D using publicly available data files that can…
