The NEAR Shoemaker spacecraft, launched by NASA in 1996, was designed to study asteroids, with a particular focus on Eros, a G-type asteroid. After a series of flybys of other celestial bodies and a year-long orbit around Eros, on February 12, 2001, the spacecraft executed a controlled descent and successfully landed on the asteroid's surface. The landing occurred in the 'saddle' region, a relatively flat area that allowed for a safe touchdown. This historic moment was not just a technical triumph; it represented a significant advancement in our capability to explore and study smaller celestial bodies. The data transmitted back to Earth provided invaluable information regarding the asteroid's surface, density, and geological history.During its mission, NEAR Shoemaker provided a wealth of data, including high-resolution images of Eros's surface and measurements of its gravity and composition. These findings helped scientists understand the formation and evolution of asteroids in relation to the solar system's history. The success of NEAR Shoemaker also paved the way for subsequent missions targeting asteroids, enhancing our understanding of these ancient remnants and their potential impact on Earth. The spacecraft's ability to both orbit and land on Eros set a precedent for future exploratory missions, reinforcing the importance of direct sampling and observation in space science.