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 flown by Saturn so far. In 1979, Pioneer 11 became the first spacecraft to fly by and study Saturn up close. Voyager 1 flew by in 1980 and Voyager 2 in 1981. These spacecraft studied many of the moons of Saturn as well. In July 2004, the Cassini spacecraft reached Saturn. It continues to send back observations of the planet, its moons, and ring system. All of these missions made many important discoveries and sent back wonderful close-up images of Saturn, its moons, and ring system. Cool Cosmos is an IPAC website.