The history books keep changing about who “discovered” what part of the world and when, and whether they were the first to do so or perhaps came upon others already there.

One thing we know for sure is that the spirit of discovery has long existed, whether motivated by the desire to trade with others or simply vanquish and plunder them, escape tyranny or poverty, convert distant heathen to the preferred religions, expand political empires, or just solve some of the many mysteries of science and the planet.

In honor of all those throughout human history who have ventured forth across treacherous oceans and other challenging landscapes, Happy Discoverers’ Day.

And may the spirit of discovery persist, regardless of the frontiers, whether on Earth or in outer space.