2 satellites and a comet

so, this amazing thing is happening next week, and i don't feel like it is getting very much media attention. i thought i'd bring it up here, and spread the news to a tiny handful more folks.

in 2004, the european space agency launched a satellite named rosetta, and sent it on a trajectory to chase after a comet known affectionately as comet 67P/Churyumov–Gerasimenko. rosetta has been chasing the comet for 10 years, and rendezvoused with it this past august.  rosetta then began a series of maneuvers which put her into close orbit, only 50-100 km from the surface of the comet.  since then, rosetta has been taking pictures, collecting samples, and sending back data that have changed our understanding of comets. 

that brings us up to next week.  rosetta did not embark on her mission alone; she carries aboard her a smaller probe, known as philae, which will be launched from rosetta to actually land ON the surface of the comet.  this has never been done before.  philae will then be able to analyze actual samples from the surface of the comet.

the launch/landing of philae is going to happen next week.  and the best part? we can all watch the satellite-to-comet launch live, on the internet, because science is the BEST.  anyway, i hope my little blurb here has made you as excited as i am.  the separation of rosetta and her philae is scheduled for november 12, and the landing is supposed to happen around 10:30 EST.  be sure to check it out.

here's a little story about rosetta and philae. and because it's a cartoon, the kids are thrilled about this upcoming event.