It is the first colour image ever made of the Pluto system by a spacecraft on approach.
The image will be refined later by the New Horizons science team. It was taken from a distance of about 115 million kilometres. At this distance, neither Pluto nor Charon is well resolved by the color imager, but their distinctly different appearances can be seen. New Horizons will approach its flyby of Pluto on 14 July.
The next issue of Cosmos magazine will features the mission and discuss its objectives.
Originally published by Cosmos as New Horizons releases first colour images of Pluto system
Bill Condie
Bill Condie is a science journalist based in Adelaide, Australia.
Read science facts, not fiction...
There’s never been a more important time to explain the facts, cherish evidence-based knowledge and to showcase the latest scientific, technological and engineering breakthroughs. Cosmos is published by The Royal Institution of Australia, a charity dedicated to connecting people with the world of science. Financial contributions, however big or small, help us provide access to trusted science information at a time when the world needs it most. Please support us by making a donation or purchasing a subscription today.