Source: twitter.com

The spacecraft “New Horizons” was launched on January 19, 2006. After nine long years, the spacecraft finished the journey of 4.8 billion kilometers to one of the most distant planets in the solar system. The spacecraft will fly by Pluto approximately 12,500 kilometers by the planet, making it the closest approach to Pluto according to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

This photo of Pluto shows a heart-shaped pattern reflected clearly on the slightly darkened surface of the planet along with a clearly visible crater.

Pluto sent a love note back to Earth via @ NASANewHorizons . This is the last image taken before today’s #PlutoFlyby . Pic.Twitter.Com/a2AE20LHcR

– NASA (@ NASA) 2015, July 14

source: twitter.com

According to NASA, exploration of small bodies located outside the orbit of Pluto will continue until next year for transmission of all research data is completed and sent back to Earth.

Here is the spacecraft New Horizons preparing for the launch.

source: Wikipedia

The spacecraft is a high speed vehicle and not loaded with fuel for the slowdown and its observation path will be by passing through the vicinity of Pluto. New Horizons was launched to Pluto on Jan. 19, 2006.

source: Wikipedia

Until now, Pluto has never been under close observation by a spacecraft until the New Horizons visits. This only adds to the mystery, and increases the expectations for the coming elucidation by a future observer spacecraft!