Exploring the Outer Planets: Current and Future Missions

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In summary, the Cassini probe is expected to reach Saturn/Titan in July of 2004. There are currently plans for the New Horizons program, which may not happen due to budget concerns. There is also a possible choice between New Horizons and a probe for Europa, which has liquid water and could potentially lead to the discovery of life. The Pluto/Kuiper Belt mission has been delayed, but is still being considered.
  • #1
phi1978
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Two questions:

1) When in 2004 is the Cassini probe due to reach Saturn/Titan ?

2) Are there any missions being planned or that have been proposed (cost permitting :wink:) to any of the three outer planets (Uranus, Neptune and Pluto) in the not too distant future?
 
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  • #2
Cassini is slated for arrival in 1 yr (July '04).

The New Horizons program is just on the drawing-board, and may not happen because of budget concerns. We may have to choose between New Horizons and a probe for Europa. Pluto's the only planet we've not yet visited, but Europa has liquid water (we think), and might be our best chance of discovering life. Toufg choice, but I'd still go for Pluto, just because it will be so long before we get another chance.
 
  • #3
Here's something you may find interesting:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/2983100.stm

Not sure what's happened to the Pluto/Kuiper Belt mission - seems to have been put back, but is still on the cards.
 

1. How long does it take for a spacecraft to reach the outer planets?

The amount of time it takes for a spacecraft to reach the outer planets varies depending on the trajectory chosen and the specific planet being targeted. On average, it takes anywhere from 5 to 12 years to reach Jupiter, and 9 to 30 years to reach Saturn. The outermost planets, Uranus and Neptune, can take up to 10-20 years to reach.

2. Why is it important to study the outer planets?

The outer planets, also known as the gas giants, are incredibly diverse and complex worlds that offer a wealth of information about the formation and evolution of our solar system. Studying these planets can also provide insights into planetary processes and atmospheres, as well as potential habitable zones in other solar systems.

3. How do scientists communicate with spacecraft traveling to the outer planets?

Communication with spacecraft traveling to the outer planets is achieved through the use of radio signals. The spacecraft sends data and images back to Earth, which are received by deep space tracking stations and then transmitted to mission control centers. This process can take anywhere from minutes to hours depending on the distance between Earth and the spacecraft.

4. What are some challenges of conducting missions to the outer planets?

One of the main challenges of missions to the outer planets is the vast distances involved. This results in long travel times and the need for highly efficient propulsion systems. Additionally, the harsh radiation and extreme conditions in the outer solar system can pose significant challenges for spacecraft and instruments.

5. How do scientists select which outer planets to study?

The selection of outer planets to study is often based on the scientific goals of a particular mission. Factors such as the distance, orbital patterns, and availability of resources also play a role in the decision-making process. For example, some missions may target multiple outer planets in order to gather a more comprehensive understanding of the outer solar system.

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