Galileo

Abstract

The Galileo consists of two main parts: a Jupiter orbiter and a probe. After a 1000 day journey, the Galileo will assume orbit around the giant planet, an orbit which will last for 200 days, in the hopes of astronomers. The orbit will carry the Galileo past its four Jovian satellites--Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto - a combined total of 11 times. This will enable scientists to study the atmosphere of not only the largest planet in the solar system, but its large moons as well. Sometime in August of 1988, the Galileo will approach Jupiter and begin its important activities. Fifty-six days away from planetary encounter, the Galileo will release the probe which will continue the trip to Jupiter and enter the atmosphere. As it descends through the atmosphere, the probe will unfurl a parachute to slow its speed as it broadcasts information back to the waiting orbiter, which will in turn relay it back to the waiting scientists on Earth. The probe's descent time is expected to be approximately 15 min before Jupiter's pressure and heat overwhelm the probe's protection. However, scientists are hopeful that the probe will survive longer than 15 min, possibly up to 60 min.