Ralph Lorenz recalls the launch of the Cassini-Huygens mission in 1997. A billion miles from Earth, a small saucer-shaped spacecraft emerged from the fiery turmoil of an atmospheric entry. Seconds later, a set of explosive bolts fired, and its charred heat-shield fell away. A parachute then opened and the craft slowly began its descent, gently buffeted by winds. With temperatures hovering at a chilly -180C, it finally touched down on the freezing surface of this distant world.

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