Be surrounded by experts in space exploration (6)

I believe the answer is:

probes

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'be surrounded by experts in space exploration' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'be surrounded by experts' is the wordplay.
'surrounded by' indicates putting letters inside.
'experts' becomes 'pros' (I've seen this in other clues).
'be' inserted within 'pros' is 'PROBES'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for probes that I've seen before include "Investigates as dentist does tooth" , "Examines in depth as dentist does tooth" , "Questions or examines thoroughly" , "Conducts penetrating investigation" , "Investigates closely" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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