Which space probe was launched by NASA in 2007 to explore Vesta and Ceres?

The space probe that was launched by NASA in 2007 to explore the asteroids Vesta and Ceres is known as Dawn. This mission was specifically designed to study these two celestial bodies, which are significant as they are among the largest objects in the asteroid belt and provide insights into the early solar system.

Dawn's journey began with its launch from Cape Canaveral, Florida, and it utilized ion propulsion technology to travel to its destinations. The probe successfully entered orbit around Vesta in 2011, where it collected data for over a year, and then it continued on to Ceres, arriving there in 2015. By studying both Vesta and Ceres, Dawn aimed to uncover information about the formation of the solar system and the conditions during its early days.

The other choices do not pertain to the correct mission or timeframe. Voyager was launched in the 1970s for a grand tour of the outer planets, New Horizons is known for its mission to Pluto and the Kuiper Belt, and Curiosity is a rover designed to explore the surface of Mars. Each of these missions has its unique objectives and targets, further emphasizing the distinct purpose of the Dawn mission in relation to Vesta and Ceres.