After a remarkable journey spanning nearly 5 decades, a chapter has come to an end for one of NASA’s most iconic space probes. Voyager 2, launched in 1977, has been sending back valuable scientific data from the vast expanse of interstellar space, making it the oldest active space probe. But as the spacecraft ventures deeper into the cosmic unknown, its power source, fueled by plutonium, gradually weakens, losing about 4 watts of power each year. This gradual decline has prompted NASA to make a crucial decision to conserve energy for the mission’s longevity.
The instrument chosen for shutdown is the plasma science instrument, which has diligently measured the amount and direction of plasma (electrically charged atoms) in the interstellar medium. While this instrument served a vital role during Voyager 2’s initial encounters with the outer planets in the 1980s, its current function is less critical to the probe’s primary objective of studying the interstellar environment.
The command to shut down the instrument was transmitted through NASA’s Deep Space Network, taking a remarkable 19 hours to reach the spacecraft traveling billions of miles away. This decision reflects NASA’s commitment to maximizing Voyager 2’s operational lifespan and ensuring its continued exploration of the cosmic frontier for years to come. As Voyager 2 continues its journey into the unknown, its legacy as a groundbreaking scientific achievement will endure, reminding us of humanity’s insatiable curiosity and our relentless pursuit of unraveling the mysteries of the universe.
