Since it was launched in the 1970s, NASA’s Voyager 1 spacecraft is reaching the edge of the solar system, and it has made an interesting discovery. 11 billion miles from home, the particles that surround it ? emanating from the sun ? are no longer moving outward but sideways. The craft’s long trip, which will only end when it runs into something in mostly-empty space, continues to beam back basic data homeward. Dan Andrews, an expert in planetary science especially the study of comets and asteroids at the Open University in the UK, joins us for more on Voyager 1’s recent discoveries and continuing journey.
The story you just read is not locked behind a paywall because listeners and readers like you generously support our nonprofit newsroom. If you’ve been thinking about making a donation, this is the best time to do it. Your support will get our fundraiser off to a solid start and help keep our newsroom on strong footing. If you believe in our work, will you give today? We need your help now more than ever!