NASA launched the NEAR Shoemaker spacecraft on February 17, 1996, from Cape Canaveral, Florida, as part of its Discovery Program, which aimed to explore the solar system in a cost-effective manner. NEAR, short for Near Earth Asteroid Rendezvous, was specially designed to study asteroid 433 Eros. The mission’s objectives were to gather data on the asteroid's surface, composition, and structure, advancing understanding of not only asteroids but also the early solar system. This mission was notable for being the first to attempt both the mapping of an asteroid and landing on its surface, a significant technical and scientific achievement.The spacecraft had a primary mission duration of around one year, during which it was to orbit Eros before attempting a soft landing. NEAR was equipped with advanced instruments to capture images and analyze materials of the asteroid surface. The mission was directed by Dr. Lawrence J. O'Rourke and was a precursor to further asteroid and planetary exploration missions, paving the way for future NASA projects involving studies of celestial bodies. After a successful journey, NEAR ultimately conducted an orbit of Eros in 2000 and landed on its surface in 2001, providing invaluable data that would later assist in understanding asteroid threats to Earth.