Chapter 11, Problem 1E

What are the main challenges involved in sending probes to the giant planets?

To determine

The main challenges involved in sending probes to the giant planets.

Answer to Problem 1E

The main challenges involved in sending probes to the giant planets are distance, atmosphere and low energy levels.

Explanation of Solution

A probe is robotic spacecraft that explores planet in outer space. It travels through interplanetary space or sometimes land on other planetary bodies. All the giant planets are together termed as Jovian planets.

The main challenges involved in sending probes to the giant planets are:

• Huge distance from Earth to those planets, all the Jovian planets are very far away from the Earth, so it will require many years of time to send a probe to them.

• Jovian planets have very low temperatures as they are very far from the Sun, so the probe require onboard heating so they do not freeze.

• Source of energy which is mostly Sun is also not available on these planets as light levels are very low to provide power to systems.

• Strong transmitters are needed so that they can communicate with Earth covering a huge distance.

• Camera of highly advanced technology is needed to click pictures in low light levels so that pictures are clear and they do not smear as the spacecraft will continuously change its position.

Conclusion:

Thus, the main challenges involved in sending probes to the giant planets are distance, atmosphere and low energy levels.