'The last lap, the grand finale': scientists say farewell as Cassini nears Saturn

Scientists are saying an emotional goodbye to Cassini as the intrepid space probe completes its “last lap” around Saturn.

The Nasa craft will plunge into the gas giant’s atmosphere on Friday, bringing a 19-year observation mission to an end as it is crushed by immense pressure. It is now about 1,200,000km from the planet, travelling at more than 110,000km/h relative to Earth.

In an email sent to friends and colleagues on Saturday, Cassini imaging team leader Carolyn Porco described the probe’s demise.

“Yesterday, Cassini's final dive through the ring plane of Saturn, the last of 22, completed successfully,” she said. “We are now climbing out of the gravitational well of Saturn for the last time, on our way towards Titan. There, the craft will experience an orbit adjustment that will put it on a course for disintegration in the Saturn atmosphere five-and-a-half days from now.”

The craft reached the planet in 2004, seven years after leaving Earth. Since then it has discovered seven new moons, revealed Earth-like features on already-known Titan and inspired countless scientists.

Cassini’s descent into the planet began in April, giving project leaders time to reflect on the completed mission. “The head is filled with many thoughts and memories now, facing the moment when it will all be over,” said Porco. “This is the last lap, the grand finale.”

The mission is set to end on Friday afternoon.

For a countdown and more information, click here.