NASA’s Lucy Mission Extends its Solar Arrays

NASA's Lucy mission has taken a significant step forward as it successfully deploys its expansive solar arrays within the controlled environment of the thermal vacuum chamber at Lockheed Martin Space in Littleton, Colorado. Impressively, each of these two circular arrays boasts an impressive span of nearly 24 feet (7.3 m). These exceptionally capable arrays are poised to play a pivotal role in fueling Lucy's remarkable 12-year expedition through the enigmatic realm of the Jupiter Trojan asteroids.

As Lucy embarks on its extraordinary odyssey, it is destined to etch its name in the annals of space exploration history. This mission is set to break new ground by embracing solar power, journeying an astonishing 530 million miles (853 million km) away from the Sun. These colossal solar arrays, akin to celestial wings, will harness the radiant energy of the Sun, becoming the lifeblood that propels Lucy through the vast expanse of deep space.

Prepare to witness a testament to human ingenuity and scientific prowess as Lucy, fueled by its monumental solar arrays, ventures into uncharted cosmic territories, unlocking the secrets of our solar system's ancient past.