NASA's Deep Space 1 (DS1) was a space probe launched in 1998 as part of the agency's New Millennium Program. DS1 was designed to demonstrate and test a range of advanced technologies for future interplanetary missions.
This innovative spacecraft incorporated a wealth of cutting-edge technology, including an ion propulsion system, autonomous navigation, and artificial intelligence-based software. The ion propulsion system was a groundbreaking development, providing efficient and low-thrust propulsion for extended missions.
One of DS1's primary objectives was to perform a close flyby of the asteroid 9969 Braille, enabling detailed observations of this celestial body. The mission successfully demonstrated the feasibility of ion propulsion for deep space exploration, contributing to the development of subsequent missions.
