A Sloth Accidentally Became the Star of the Jupiter Mission Launch Broadcast

Funny weekend news that we deserved.

During the launch of the Ariane 5 rocket to Jupiter's moons as part of the Juice mission, a sloth accidentally appeared on the broadcast for a few seconds. The animal was sitting in the grass in front of one of the cameras during the flight preparations.

To ensure the animal's safety, specialists moved it to a secure location. They noted that the view from there was even better, according to the broadcast organizers.

"This guy is definitely the star of the ESA broadcast," tweeted user @nadiamdrake.

"While we were focused on the specific rocket and spacecraft, we tend to agree with you," ESA replied.

As a result, internet users suggested making the little guy the mission's mascot, and NASA astronomer Tanya Harrison even designed a corresponding logo.

The broadcast recording can be viewed on the ESA website. The sloth's star moment is at the 27-minute mark.

The historic mission to Jupiter's moons launched on Friday, April 14. The European Space Agency sent a six-ton automatic interplanetary station to the gas giant. It is expected to reach its destination by July 2031.