Exploring Mercury: The MESSENGER Mission

The MESSENGER mission, part of NASA's Discovery program, aims to explore Mercury, the closest planet to the Sun. The spacecraft will take seven years to reach its orbit, performing multiple flybys of Earth, Venus, and Mercury to adjust its trajectory. Equipped with advanced instruments, MESSENGER will capture the first complete images of Mercury and analyze its surface and magnetic field. The mission addresses challenges posed by Mercury's proximity to the Sun, using innovative technology like a ceramic sun shade. MESSENGER's findings will enhance our understanding of rocky planets, including Earth.

What is the primary goal of the MESSENGER mission?

• To study the outer planets

• To reveal more about the rocky planets

• To explore the gas giants

• To investigate the asteroid belt

Which technological advancement helps MESSENGER withstand extreme temperatures?

• A reflective outer layer

• A ceramic fiber cloth sun shade

• A heat-resistant metal body

• A cooling liquid system

How many times will MESSENGER fly past Venus before reaching Mercury?

• Four times

• Three times

• Twice

• Once

What is the purpose of the flybys during MESSENGER's journey?

• To communicate with Earth

• To adjust the spacecraft's trajectory

• To collect data from other planets

• To test the spacecraft's instruments

In which NASA program is the MESSENGER mission included?

• Apollo Program

• Voyager Program

• Discovery Program

• Pioneer Program