In 2005, scientists continued to explore the mysteries of the solar system through dramatic landings and fascinating observations…
Composite image of some astronomical events in 2005
The year 2005 began with the event of the Huygens probe separating from its mother ship Cassini and landing on Saturn’s moon Titan. Subsequently, Cassini discovered what appeared to be volcanoes and methane rain on Titan.
Closer to Earth, the Deep Impact spacecraft launched a copper projectile at Comet Tempel 1, creating a cloud of dust and ice. Due to the appearance of this cloud and a malfunctioning camera, the spacecraft was unable to see the crater created on the comet’s surface.
Interesting Observations
Astronomers were also thrilled to discover a celestial body that may be the tenth planet in the solar system. This planet was named Xena, larger than Pluto. By the end of 2005, the same team that discovered Xena observed a moon orbiting it, which they named Gabrielle.
Another large celestial body, part of the Kuiper Belt and approximately 70% the size of Pluto, was also discovered this year. However, this information needs further confirmation.
Another uncertain piece of information relates to the asteroid Apophis.
Observations at the end of 2004 indicated that this 300-meter diameter body could potentially collide with Earth in 2029. Subsequent observations in 2005 suggested that the collision in 2029 was not certain.
However, Apophis passing close to Earth could alter its orbit to the extent that it might collide with Earth in 2034 or later.
Moreover, within the orbit of Mars, the European Space Agency’s Mars Express spacecraft finally deployed Marsis after several months of delays. This antenna found evidence of liquid water in a deep, buried crater created by a meteor impact.
The spacecraft also found evidence of ice-covered seas on Mars.
Sample Collection Work
NASA’s two rovers, Spirit and Opportunity, continued to traverse Mars, observing dust storms, meteoroids, meteor showers, and analyzing sulfur-rich rocks.
They also overcame many technical challenges. Opportunity became stuck in sand and took five weeks to escape this trap. Meanwhile, Spirit’s robotic arm stopped functioning for a brief period. Both rovers were set to celebrate their second birthday in January 2006.
Despite these successes, 2005 also marked some failures: ESA’s Cryosat satellite and the Planetary Society’s Cosmos 1 solar sail were not launched into orbit due to issues with the rocket.
Additionally, Japan’s asteroid sample-return spacecraft encountered a series of problems. Its Minerva robot went missing due to a deployment error. Attempts to land on the asteroid and collect samples seemed unsuccessful. Japan plans to return the Hayabusa spacecraft to Earth in 2010.
Minh Sơn
