NASA's Voyager 2 sends back its first signal from interstellar space

But how long until it gains sentience? (Sorry...not sorry...read 17776 if you haven't already) [0]

[0] https://www.sbnation.com/a/17776-football

I wonder if there is any potential direct observation possible of them from humans after the radio becomes too weak. Could we build a laser powerful enough to get a reflect back that we could measure, with some kind of incredibly large reflector/receiver? I doubt they have 'reflectors' back. Did you know they put reflectors on the moon that we still use for laser 'range finding' today.

Interesting quote: "...they will continue on their trajectories long after they fall silent. "The two Voyagers will outlast Earth," said Kurth."

The Earth will be totally fried and maybe even vaporized in about 5 billion years from now when the sun swells up.

By the way, I couldn't find a date on that article. Anyone? I suspect it may not be fresh.