How NASA's Voyager Program Got Its Start

The Voyager program was initiated as a Grand Tour of the Solar System, taking advantage of a unique planetary alignment in the late 70s. This alignment allowed spacecraft to visit multiple planets, including Jupiter and Saturn, and potentially Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. The program led to the creation of Voyager 1 and Voyager 2, which provided valuable insights into the outer planets, now known as the ice giants. The spacecraft have since moved into interstellar space, marking a significant milestone in space exploration.

What was the primary goal of the Voyager program?

Why was the alignment of the planets significant for the Voyager missions?

What opportunities did the late 70s present for launching spacecraft?

What are the two outer planets referred to in the context of the Voyager program?

What transition have the Voyager spacecraft been following in recent years?