Pioneer 10 Still Running After 30 years

evilempireinc writes "According to this article in Scientific American, Pioneer 10 is still functioning 30 years after it was launched in 1972, and is still sending back scientific data. The article mentions that two other old space craft, Voyager, and IMP-8 are still functioning after over 20 years as well due to overbuilt construction and redundant systems. Can't help but wonder if the present generation of "faster, better, cheaper" probes will ever live this long though."

Comments

tragic name for a great device

[tps12]

I think exploration equipment like the Pioneer are excellent investments and in the long run will benefit mankind immensely.

That makes it all the more painful that it is named after such a terrible period in American history. The pioneers swept across the West, killing Indians and the now nearly-extinct buffalo that had lived here since before white man knew the continent existed. They cut down old trees and ripped up fertile farmland, grabbing all they could in an Imperialist drive to acquire the world for the fledgling nation.

In contrast, the Pioneer 10 explores in a mission of peace and benevolence. I would find it humorous if it weren't so disturbing.