Voyager 1 deep space

Launched in 1977, Voyager 1 is the farthest human-made object from Earth, now exploring interstellar space.

About this subject

Voyager 1 is a NASA space probe launched on September 5, 1977. Its initial mission was to study Jupiter and Saturn, but after completing those goals, it continued outward into the outer solar system. In 2012, it became the first human-made object to enter interstellar space, a region between stars filled with plasma and cosmic rays. Currently, Voyager 1 is more than 24 billion kilometers from the Sun, traveling at about 17 kilometers per second.

The probe carries the Golden Record, a phonograph disc with sounds and images representing life on Earth, including greetings in 55 languages and music from different cultures. This record is designed to last billions of years in case the probe is encountered by an alien civilization. Voyager 1 is powered by radioisotope thermoelectric generators, which are expected to supply electricity until around 2025. After that, the probe will continue its silent journey through the cosmos.

The Voyager mission was a landmark in space exploration, revealing unprecedented details about the gas giants and their moons. For instance, it discovered active volcanoes on Io, a moon of Jupiter, and the complex structure of Saturn's rings. Voyager 1's instruments still send data on magnetic fields and interstellar particles, helping scientists understand the boundaries of the solar system. Despite the distance, the probe's signal takes about 20 hours to reach Earth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Voyager 1 from Earth currently?

As of 2025, Voyager 1 is over 24 billion kilometers from the Sun, about 160 astronomical units. Its signal takes approximately 20 hours to reach Earth.

What is the Voyager Golden Record?

It is a phonograph record containing sounds and images of life on Earth, including greetings in 55 languages, music, and maps. It was designed to communicate human existence to potential extraterrestrial civilizations.

How long will Voyager 1 continue to operate?

Its radioisotope thermoelectric generators are expected to power its scientific instruments until around 2025. After that, the probe will continue its journey silently through interstellar space.