Updated September 18, 2016. Definition. An aphorism is a tersely phrased statement of a truth or opinion, or a brief statement of a principle. Adjective: aphoristic. Also known as (or similar to) a saying, maxim, adage, saw, dictum, and precept.
The first successful flyby of Venus was performed by NASAâs Mariner 2 spacecraft on 14 December 1962, following failed attempts by both the Soviet Union and the USA. The first successful landing was the Soviet Venera 4 lander, which touched down on the surface on 18 October 1967.
Four spacecraft have visited the Saturn system, but only Cassini has orbited the ringed planet. Doing so has bought Cassini time -- more than a decade -- to linger and watch Saturnâs exotic zoo of 60-plus moons like no spacecraft has before.