The US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) unveiled the plaque containing the message that will be sent to Saturn’s moon Europa in October 2024. Sending messages into deep space via physical media remains one of NASA’s traditions, according to the official. Web site agencies.
The message consists of a triangular plate containing an engraving of the poem “Ode to Mystery: A Poem for Europe” by American poet Ada Limon, as well as a microchip encoding the names of 2.6 million people who have abandoned the relevant apps. The work, measuring 18 x 28 centimeters, is made of tantalum and decorated with graphic elements on both sides.
The message will be placed on the Europa Clipper probe, designed to explore the Jupiter and Europa system. The device will travel 2.6 billion kilometers and reach the gas giant and its satellites in 2030. In addition to providing scientists with detailed data on Europa’s icy surface and subglacial ocean, the study of Europa will also help assess the suitability of the moon’s water depths for life.
NASA noted that its message to Europe was inspired by the famous golden record aboard the Voyager spacecraft, which carried information beyond the solar system about the richness and diversity of life on Earth.
Planetary scientists before named The Europa Clipper mission is one of the most important space projects of 2024.