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Lesson

Voyager 1: NASA's Long-Lasting Spacecraft

NASA has turned off one of Voyager 1's instruments to extend its mission, highlighting its significance as the most distant human-made object.

Source:npr.org

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Standard — Natural English

63 words · ~1 min read
Voyager 1 is a robotic space probe launched by NASA in 1977. Originally designed for a five-year mission, it has now been operational for nearly fifty years. Recently, NASA decided to turn off one of its science instruments to conserve power and prolong its mission. Voyager 1 is the farthest human-made object from Earth and has provided valuable information about our solar system.

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Test your understanding

Test your understanding

01When was Voyager 1 launched?

02Why did NASA turn off one of Voyager 1's instruments?

03What is Voyager 1 known for?

04What technique did Voyager 1 use to explore multiple planets?

Discussion

Discussion

What do you think is the significance of Voyager 1's discoveries?

Vocabulary

Vocabulary

  • probe word

    a spacecraft used for exploration

    “Voyager 1 is a robotic space probe.”

  • mission word

    a specific task or purpose

    “The mission of Voyager 1 was to explore the outer planets.”

  • gravity assist word

    a technique to gain speed by using a planet's gravity

    “Voyager 1 used gravity assist to travel faster.”

  • instrument word

    a tool used for scientific measurement

    “NASA turned off one of Voyager 1's science instruments.”

  • operational word

    functioning or in working order

    “Voyager 1 has been operational for nearly fifty years.”