Once the Voyagers reached escape velocity and entered interstellar space, their sensors indicated a shift in the detected particles, revealing the probe's transition from solar to galactic environment.
The Voyagers' longevity stems from their use of radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs) powered by plutonium-238, enabling them to operate far away from the sun.
As the plutonium in the RTGs decays, the energy output decreases, leading to a gradual shutdown of active instruments to conserve power for the Voyagers.
Both Voyager probes are gradually facing energy depletion; their RTGs have a finite life, restricting the duration and capabilities of their ongoing mission in interstellar space.
#voyager-probes #interstellar-mission #radioisotope-thermoelectric-generators #space-exploration #nuclear-power
Collection
[
|
...
]