JUICE Space Mission of Europe

The European Union is to launch the JUICE Spacecraft in April 2023. The spacecraft is to explore the moons of Jupiter. Specifically, the mission is to study the three major moons of Jupiter namely Ganymede, Europe, and Callisto. Out of the 80 moons of the planet, these three were selected for their large oceans. The satellite is to be launched from French Guiana. Ariane 5 will carry the satellite. JUICE is the first satellite from the earth to enter the orbit of Ganymede.

About JUICE

• JUICE stands for Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer. The satellite was developed by Germany and tested by France.
• The main objective of the mission is to study the microbial life on the icy moons of the planet
• It will also study the polar regions and the magnetosphere of the planet
• JUICE will enter the orbit of Ganymede to study its composition
• If launched in April 2023, the satellite is expected to enter Jupiter orbit by 2034
• It will be deorbited in 2035
• Cost of the mission: 1.5 billion Euros

Europa Clipper Mission: NASA Mission of Jupiter

NASA is to launch this mission in 2024. And the satellite will enter the giant planet orbit by 2030.

Significance

Scientists are curious to study Jupiter as the planet has one of the largest moon systems in the universe.

Month: Current Affairs - January, 2023

Category: International / World Current Affairs • Science & Technology Current Affairs