The Voyager 2 probe, seen here above Neptune, used gravity assists to reach the outer solar system (Image: Seth Shostak / SPL)

COULD space probes use genetic algorithms as autopilots to help them navigate the complexities of the solar system?

Deep-space missions such as NASA’s veteran z Voyager probes often rely on gravity assists. They use a planet’s gravitational field as a slingshot, which allows them to visit other celestial bodies without using up too much fuel. But programming a probe with its trajectory years ahead of time can be a problem, says Ian Carnelli of the European Space Agency …