Home > Science > Space Exploration > Related Images
Stardust spacecraft at Comet Wild-2
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Stardust spacecraft at Comet Wild-2
Stardust spacecraft at Comet Wild-2, computer artwork. Stardust passed through the gas and dust cloud (coma) of Comet Wild-2 on 2 January 2004. It collected dust samples to be returned to Earth. It passed by the comet at a speed of six kilometres a second, just beyond the orbit of Mars. The sample collector, made of aerogel, has been deployed here (round, blue). Shields protected the rest of the spacecraft, including two bumper shields (black) at the front of the solar panels (blue). Stardust, launched in 1999, took 5 years to reach Comet Wild-2. It will return to Earth in January 2006. Cometary dust is studied because it is a sample of material from the formation of the solar system
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6447629
© NASA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
2004 Collecting Collection Coma Comet Cometary Cosmology Dust Encounter Exploration January Meeting Mission Nasa Panel Panels Probe Sample Sampling Shield Shielding Solar System Space Craft Space Flight Tail Universe Unmanned Computer Artwork Encountering Sampler
EDITORS COMMENTS
This computer artwork showcases the Stardust spacecraft as it encounters Comet Wild-2, a momentous event in space exploration. In this stunning illustration, we witness the spacecraft passing through the ethereal gas and dust cloud surrounding the comet's nucleus on 2 January 2004. The primary objective of this encounter was to collect precious samples of cometary dust for analysis back on Earth. The image highlights the deployment of the sample collector, an innovative device made of aerogel that is depicted here as a round, blue structure. This collector served as a shielded haven for gathering pristine particles from deep within the coma. To safeguard its delicate instruments and solar panels during this daring mission, Stardust employed two bumper shields at its forefront (depicted in black) while maintaining full protection behind them. Stardust embarked on its epic journey in 1999 and took five years to reach Comet Wild-2, surpassing Mars' orbit with remarkable speed—six kilometers per second! After successfully completing its rendezvous with this celestial wanderer, Stardust would eventually return to Earth in January 2006 carrying invaluable insights into our solar system's origins. This awe-inspiring artwork not only captures a pivotal moment in scientific research but also symbolizes humanity's relentless pursuit of knowledge about our universe. Through technological advancements and ambitious missions like Stardust, we continue to unravel mysteries hidden within comets—a cosmic time capsule providing us with glimpses into our own cosmic past.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
