Just about the time you think NASA’s groaning bureaucracy can groan no more, along comes a triumph to make it seem almost vivacious again —even if the triumph was managed by outsiders. And, in bringing distant Pluto (on right with moon Charon left) into closeup for the first time, the achievement reveals more mysteries than it explains. Making another distant (in miles and in time) visit likely, which should keep the groaning going for another decade or two. (Click to biggerize.)
THE TEXAS SCRIBBLER 