Voyagance 1 probe launched

Year 3, Day 140

Yesterday, the KSA launched what is likely the most important deep-space probe ever constructed, like Kioneer 10 on steroids... Voyagance 1!

This probe is designed for the great planetary alignment of all the outer worlds, including Jool, Sarnus, Urlum, and Neidon. But not to just look at them through a lens, but instead go to them.

Voyagance 1 carries a suite of instruments to study these distant worlds in unprecedented detail. On board are high-resolution cameras, a magnetometer to measure planetary magnetic fields, a gravitational sensor to track subtle tugs from moons, and the classic thermometer and barometer pair for atmospheric studies during flybys. Power is supplied by radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs), ensuring the probe can keep operating far from Kerbol’s light. Backup batteries provide additional security in case of unexpected power demands.

Beyond its scientific payload, the probe carries a symbolic one: a polished silver record mounted to its frame. The KSA’s silver disc holds sounds, images, and messages from Kerbin, as well as showing things we Kerbals know, such as bonds between atoms, and where we are in the universe. It also contains instructions on how to play the record. Should Voyagance 1 one day be intercepted by another spacefaring species, the record would serve as a time capsule of Kerbal civilization.

The launch was timed to take advantage of a rare celestial alignment, allowing Voyagance 1 to slingshot from planet to planet in a grand tour before being flung into interstellar space. Engineers say the probe will become the fastest object ever built by Kerbalkind, at least for now, destined to drift between the stars long after its instruments die.



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