Voyager program update

Dale Hawkins, retired from a career in engineering, is now a Solar System Ambassador for NASA/JPL. In this capacity, he spoke to Kiwanis recently about the Voyager Program. He explained there are two Voyager spacecrafts which were launched only months apart in 1977 with the primary mission being the exploration of Jupiter and Saturn. This mission yielded much information for the scientific community.

Built to last five years, they were sent on a two-year mission and have lasted well beyond.

Continuing its journey, Voyager I entered interstellar space in 2012. When Voyager 2 reaches the heliosphere, scientists hope to discover what lies beyond the edge of the solar system.

Hawkins expressed admiration for the Voyager program which has functioned so well for a long period of time. However, he pointed out the power to the spacecraft is weakening and may be depleted by 2020. Meanwhile, data is still being collected and analyzed. For more information visit voyager.jpl.nasa.gov/science/planetary.html

Kiwanis meets each Wednesday at noon for lunch at Big Papa's Steakhouse in Tehachapi.

A brief meeting is held, followed by an interesting speaker. Guests and prospective members are always welcome. Call (661) 822-5379 for more information.