A European space probe explores 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko and illuminates our knowledge of comets and the origins of the solar system.
For a decade, the European Space Agency's Rosetta spacecraft has flown through the vastness of space. Now it is ever closer getting to its target: 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko - a comet full of surprises. Its nucleus, for example, is similar to a rubber duckie. Scientists are therefore eagerly waiting for August 6, when Rosetta will enter into orbit around the celestial body. And in November Philae will land on its surface.
Light scattered from dust particles allows a first glance at the side of comet 67P that has been trapped in the darkness of polar night for the last months.
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Although the comparison with the manned Moon landing may appear somewhat exaggerated, Rosetta is undoubtedly one of space travel’s most daring enterprises.
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