A robotic spacecraft launched to explore the solar system and beyond, rather than orbiting Earth. These vehicles carry scientific instruments to study planets, moons, asteroids, or comets. Because they operate millions of miles away, they require autonomous navigation, deep space communication systems, and long-lasting power sources like radioisotope thermoelectric generators.
The space probe will perform a slingshot maneuver around Jupiter to reach the outer solar system.
Also heard as
- probe
Do not mix it up with
- Spacecraft: A spacecraft is any vehicle in space, while a space probe specifically travels beyond Earth orbit to explore other bodies.
Related terms
Spacecraft
Any vehicle designed to fly and operate in outer space.
Slingshot effect
A maneuver that uses a planet's gravity and orbital momentum to accelerate or decelerate a spacecraft.
Instrument
A device in the cockpit that displays critical flight data to the pilot.
Trajectory
The three-dimensional flight path of an aircraft, rocket, or spacecraft.