The Background: A Fascinating Journey Through the Solar System
On August 20, 1977, Voyager 2 embarked on its mission to explore the outer planets of our solar system. It holds the distinction of being the only spacecraft to have encountered Uranus and Neptune, as well as the second to traverse the boundary between our solar system and interstellar space, known as the Milky Way.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time communication with Voyager 2 has been temporarily lost. In 2020, the Deep Space Network, responsible for maintaining contact, had to shut down the only radio dish capable of communicating with the spacecraft for necessary repairs and upgrades. However, upon its restoration in March 2021, Voyager 2 displayed uninterrupted functionality.
Shortly after Voyager 2 began its odyssey, NASA launched its twin, Voyager 1, on a separate trajectory. Voyager 1 actually reached interstellar space first and remains in contact with mission specialists to this day.
The Significance: A ceaselessly enduring mission
Despite being nearly 46 years into its mission, Voyager 2 continues to provide invaluable scientific data about the ever-changing environment beyond our solar system. It offers insights into how the heliosphere, a radiation-filled bubble emanating from our sun, interacts with interstellar space.
However, if something were to go awry before communications are reestablished, there is no means of repairing the spacecraft. This concern surpasses the potential loss of scientific data in the short term, as stated by a spokesperson from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
Earlier this year, Voyager 2 switched to utilizing backup power for its five instruments to extend the mission’s lifespan. It is anticipated that one of these instruments will need to be permanently deactivated in 2026, with others following suit in subsequent years, to maximize the mission’s longevity.
What Lies Ahead: Patience, Earthlings
On Wednesday, the mission’s managers will attempt to realign Voyager 2’s antenna towards Earth using the Deep Space Network. The signal will take approximately 18 hours to reach the spacecraft, and an additional 18 hours will pass before scientists on Earth ascertain the success of the maneuver.
In the event of a failed command, scientists will have to wait until October 15th. On that date, the mission’s computer is programmed to automatically orient the antenna back towards Earth, offering hope for the restoration of communication.
The spokesperson expressed their concern regarding the temporary loss of contact with a 46-year-old spacecraft, but also acknowledged its resilience thus far. They remain confident in Voyager 2’s ability to endure.
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