On August 20, 1977, the first of two Voyager space crafts was launched. Thanks to Tullahoma resident, Dr. Gary Flandro, they have done something never done by humans; they have left the solar system and are headed toward the center of the Milky Way!!  They are still sending back data!

When Gary was six years old he received a book on space showing the planets sort of lined up. Remembering this years later while working at NASA, he convinced skeptical engineers that they could use the planets to “sling shot” rockers from Jupiter to Saturn, then on to Uranus, and finally Neptune, while sending back pictures. After doing the math he pointed out that it would be another 176 years before this would again be possible.

Knowing that the space ships would stay in space for potentially billions on years, each contained gold plated DVDs with songs and information about our civilization. Dr. Flandro has been recognized by UTSI, NASA and by National Geographic. I he believe should be honored by our city and state for this historic accomplishment.

Bill Boss

Science Advisor

Hands-On Science Center

Tullahoma