Juno spacecraft figures
The Juno spacecraft figures are three figurines designed to resemble a minifigure, as part of LEGO and NASA's partnership to inspire children to explore mathematics, science and technology. They have been placed on the spacecraft, which left earth on August 5, 2011 to travel to Jupiter and study the planet.
Figures[edit | edit source]
- Juno - Juno was a Roman goddess and wife of Jupiter. She holds a magnifying glass to symbolise her search for the truth.
- Jupiter - Jupiter was the king of the Roman gods and husband to Juno. He carries a lightning bolt to symbolise him also being god of lightning.
- Galileo Galilei - Galileo was a Italian astronomer who made many famous scientific discoveries, including many regarding Jupiter.
NASA press release[edit | edit source]
This is a description taken from NASA. Do not modify it. (visit this item's product page)
NASA's Jupiter-bound Juno spacecraft will carry the 1.5-inch likeness of Galileo Galilei, the Roman god Jupiter and his wife Juno to Jupiter when the spacecraft launches this Friday, Aug. 5. The inclusion of the three mini-statues, or figurines, is part of a joint outreach and educational program developed as part of the partnership between NASA and the LEGO Group to inspire children to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
In Greek and Roman mythology, Jupiter drew a veil of clouds around himself to hide his mischief. From Mount Olympus, Juno was able to peer through the clouds and reveal Jupiter's true nature. Juno holds a magnifying glass to signify her search for the truth, while her husband holds a lightning bolt. The third LEGO crew member is Galileo Galilei, who made several important discoveries about Jupiter, including the four largest satellites of Jupiter (named the Galilean moons in his honor). Of course, the miniature Galileo has his telescope with him on the journey.
