NASA's Juno spacecraft captures stunning Jupiter images before mission end

On May 8, 2025, NASA's Juno spacecraft successfully completed its 72nd close flyby of Jupiter, marking a significant milestone just weeks before the completion of its mission. This flyby resulted in the capture of breathtaking images of Jupiter's turbulent storms and cloud bands, along with its volcanic moon, Io. Launched from Earth in August 2011 and entering orbit around Jupiter in July 2016, Juno has been vital in deepening our understanding of the gas giant. As the spacecraft approaches its final orbits, with only four more to go, excitement grows around the valuable data it has collected during its nearly nine years in the Jovian system. NASA's Juno mission exemplifies innovation in space exploration, being the farthest solar-powered spacecraft in the agency's fleet. Utilizing its advanced scientific instruments, including a magnetometer and JunoCam – a two-megapixel camera – the spacecraft has been relaying thousands of images depicting the intricate atmospheric dynamics of Jupiter. These images are processed by a dedicated community of citizen scientists, enhancing our insights into the planet's weather patterns. The next close flyby, designated as perijove 73, is scheduled for June 10, 2025, as the mission gears up for a dramatic conclusion. As the Juno mission nears its end, NASA has meticulously planned the final phase, ending with a controlled