Space probe

Artist's concept of the Cassini spacecraft during Saturn Orbit Insertion⁠

A space probe is an uncrewed robotic spacecraft designed to explore outer space and transmit scientific data back to Earth. Space probes are used to investigate the Moon, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, the Sun, and interstellar space. Unlike artificial satellites, which usually remain in orbit around Earth, probes are sent beyond Earth orbit toward other celestial bodies or into deep space.