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.
Artist's concept of Mariner 9, the first probe to orbit Mars. Image credit: NASA We received this question from fourth-grade students in Fresno, California. JPL's Homework Help page provides basic information and suggestions for further research. A probe is a spacecraft that travels through space to collect science information. Probes do not have astronauts. Probes send data back to Earth for scientists to study. The First Probes Sputnik 1 was the first probe to go into space. It was launched on Oct. 4, 1957, by the former Soviet Union. On Jan. 31, 1958, the United States sent a probe called Explorer 1 into space. These first probes studied Earth from space. They also learned what it's like to be in space. This was the beginning of the Space Race between the United States and Soviet Union.