Proposed NASA radio probe could use gravity 'lumpiness' to reveal the insides of alien worlds

image via Space.com

June 13, 2025, 2:00 PM

• •GIRO is a low-cost radio probe that can map the interiors and compositions of exoplanets using gravity fields.
• •The probe measures subtle variations in gravitational fields to infer internal structures and dynamics of celestial bodies.
• •GIRO offers high accuracy, low cost, and the ability to carry multiple probes, potentially advancing planetary science.
• •Challenges include orbit planning, battery life, and compliance with planetary protection rules, but integration could occur within one to three years.

A new, low-cost radio probe called GIRO is being developed to unlock the secrets of exoplanets by using the invisible pull of gravity. This small probe is designed to measure subtle variations in gravitational fields, allowing researchers to map the interiors and compositions of celestial bodies with high precision. By analyzing these measurements, scientists can infer the internal structure and dynamics of planets, moons, and other celestial bodies. GIRO's high accuracy, low cost, and ability to carry multiple probes could revolutionize future space exploration missions, potentially opening the door to exploring smaller celestial bodies and remote planetary systems.

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