The Grand Tour: 1977 presents a rare opportunity for a single spacecraft to fly by Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune

Abstract

During 1969, two Mariner spacecraft flew past Mars at an altitude of 2,130 miles and returned excellent scientific data, photographs, infrared and ultraviolet spectra, and infrared radiometer data. Furthermore, the trajectories were calculated with such precision that atmospheric refraction could be measured and our knowledge of the gravitational field of Mars refined. These flights are a measure of the present capabilities in planetary exploration. We are able to send relatively complex instruments to the nearer planets, operate them remotely and precisely, and return data to earth reliably and at a reasonably high bit rate.

Additional details