Space

Video Voyager 1 at the edge of interstellar space

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June 25, 2012

The Voyager 1 spacecraft has been operating for 34 years, 9 months and 18 days as of today (June 23, 2012), and now, after that long journey through our solar system, the craft is believed to be poised at the edge of interstellar space. Voyager 1 is reporting a sharp increase in cosmic rays that may herald its final push out of the heliosphere – or sphere of our sun’s influence – into the realm of the stars. The NASA video Voyager 1 below explains more.

Video Voyager 1 — Artist’s concept of Voyager 1 and 2 to be at the edge of the heliosphere – or sphere of the sun’s influence. (NASA/JPL-Caltech)

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June 25, 2012

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Space

Deborah Byrd

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Deborah Byrd (asteroid 3505 Byrd) helps edit EarthSky.org and is a frequent host of EarthSky videos. Deborah created the EarthSky radio series in 1991 and founded EarthSky.org in 1994. Prior to that, she had worked for the University of Texas McDonald Observatory since 1976, and created and produced their Star Date radio series. She has won a galaxy of awards from the broadcasting and science communities, including having an asteroid named in her honor in 1990, a Public Service Award from the National Science Board in 2003, and the Education Prize from the American Astronomical Society in 2020. A science communicator and educator since 1976, Byrd believes in science as a force for good in the world and a vital tool for the 21st century. "Being an EarthSky editor is like hosting a big global party for cool nature-lovers," she says.