How does NASA communicate with spacecraft in deep space?

NASA uses a Deep Space Network (DSN) to communicate with spacecraft in deep space. The DSN consists of a network of large antennas located in California, Spain, and Australia, strategically placed around the globe to ensure constant contact with spacecraft. These antennas receive and transmit signals to communicate with spacecraft across immense distances. Communication signals are sent as radio waves, which travel at the speed of light, and are received by the antennas onboard the spacecraft. The spacecraft then transmit signals back to Earth following the same process. The DSN allows NASA to send commands and receive data from deep space missions, enabling scientists and engineers to control and monitor spacecraft, retrieve valuable scientific information, and perform critical maintenance and maneuvers.