19/10/2024
Did you know there is a car in Space
Why did Elon Musk launch a Tesla into space instead of something more scientific? 🚀🧐
If you're thinking of the famous Tesla in space from the first Falcon Heavy launch, here's why! That mission had no paying customers for its inaugural flight. So, instead of wasting the opportunity, Elon Musk decided to send his very own Tesla Roadster with a dummy called "Starman" in the driver's seat. It was a genius publicity stunt, and it definitely worked – those iconic pictures of Starman orbiting space are unforgettable! 😎🌌
But hold on, it's not actually in Mars orbit! 🚗🌍 The Tesla is in a solar orbit that goes a bit past Mars' orbit. Although it's close, it's highly unlikely to hit either Earth or Mars.
If you're talking about today's Falcon Heavy launch (October 14, 2024), the mission was much more scientific! This one carried the Europa Clipper, an ESA probe heading to Jupiter’s moon Europa. Europa is one of the best spots in the solar system to search for life because of its liquid water oceans beneath the icy surface. 🌊🧬
What an exciting journey for both missions, right? 😃
📷 SpaceX
