The launch will be carried out using the most powerful rocket in the hands of the United States in order to reach and put the small spacecraft, which is the size of a piano, on a relatively fast orbit to Pluto. If NASA misses this opportunity, the duration of New Horizon's journey will be extended by at least five years
If there are no last-minute disruptions, NASA will launch the New Horizon spacecraft this evening (20:24 Israel time), which is supposed to explore Pluto and the Kuiper belt. Due to the enormous distance from the Sun, New Horizon will not be able to rely on solar energy to supply the electrical needs of devices The spacecraft and therefore it carries with it a small nuclear reactor powered by plutonium that will be enough for the nine-year flight to the edge of the solar system.
NASA said it is continuing preparations despite protests by protesters who oppose the use of nuclear weapons. About 30 protesters protested near NASA's launch center at Cape Canaveral, claiming that a launch failure could cause plutonium to disperse.
The launch will be carried out using the most powerful rocket in the hands of the United States in order to reach and put the small spacecraft, which is the size of a piano, on a relatively fast orbit to Pluto. If NASA misses this opportunity, the duration of New Horizon's journey will be extended by at least five years.
