NASA has released the latest images of Io, the volcanic moon of Jupiter. The flyby of the Juno spacecraft near the surface of the celestial body allowed for the capture of photos from a distance of only 1500 kilometers. These images provide a closer look at the “dark side” of this object.
Fascinating Facts about Io
Definition: Juno spacecraft – a space mission aimed at studying Jupiter.
Io is the third largest moon of Jupiter and one of the most intriguing. It is covered in volcanoes, making it one of the most active objects in the Solar System. With these close-up images, scientists can study changes in volcanic activity on Io, such as the frequency of eruptions, their brightness and temperature, and the shape of lava flows.
Technical Issues during the Juno Mission
During the flyby of the volcanic moon, the Juno spacecraft encountered technical problems. The JunoCam camera mounted on the probe started showing damage caused by cosmic radiation. However, the team of engineers is working on solutions to continue the camera’s operation.
What’s Next?
There are planned upcoming missions for space exploration. In 2024, we can expect various expeditions that will allow us to uncover the mysteries of our Universe. Many other measurement instruments will continue their work.
FAQ
Question: Why is the unlit portion of the moon visible in the photos?
Answer: The dark side of the moon is illuminated by light reflected from Jupiter, allowing us to see that area.
Source: NASA
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