NEAR Shoemaker Launch: Asteroid Exploration Begins
February 17th, 1996
February 17th, 1996
How Long Ago?
29 years, 26 days ago
Location
Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA
Category
Space Exploration
People
- Dr. Lawrence J. O'Rourke
- Dr. Robert M. Nelson
Links & References
Tags
NEAR Shoemaker Launch: Asteroid Exploration Begins
NASA's NEAR Shoemaker spacecraft was launched, marking the beginning of the Discovery Program. This mission aimed to be the first to orbit and land on an asteroid, specifically targeting 433 Eros. The launch took place from Cape Canaveral, Florida, showcasing the United States' commitment to advance space exploration and study the characteristics of asteroids.
First mission to orbit and land on an asteroid.
Targeted asteroid 433 Eros for exploration.
Launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida.
Gathered crucial data on asteroid characteristics.
What Happened?
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.
Why Does it Matter?
The NEAR Shoemaker mission marked a pivotal point in asteroid study and space exploration. It was not only the first mission to orbit and land on an asteroid, but it also provided critical insights into the nature of asteroids, which are remnants from the solar system's formation. The data collected has influenced subsequent missions and research concerning planetary defense and the potential for mining asteroids in the future, making this launch a foundational event for both scientific and exploratory endeavors in space.
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