The Voyager 1 spacecraft, launched in 1977, continues to transmit data from beyond our solar system despite being over 14 billion miles from Earth. Its plutonium power source generates less energy each year, and NASA engineers estimate it will cease functioning around 2025. No other human-made object has traveled so far.
It can be inferred from the text that
Voyager 1 will continue operating indefinitely
solar power is effective for deep space missions
multiple spacecraft have left our solar system
the mission has exceeded typical expectations for spacecraft longevity
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. Operating for 47+ years is exceptional.
- Context clues: Launched in 1977, still transmitting; "no other human-made object has traveled so far."
- Meaning: The record-breaking distance and continued operation suggest exceptional performance.
- Verify: A spacecraft functioning for nearly 50 years exceeds typical expectations.
💡 Strategy: When something is described as unique or record-breaking, infer exceptional performance.
Choice A is incorrect because it will "cease functioning around 2025." Choice B is incorrect because Voyager uses plutonium, not solar power. Choice C is incorrect because "no other" object has traveled so far.