Mapping Mission: Reaching the Surface of Mercury
Lesson Express
Q: Why was it so difficult to explore Mercury?
A: Because Mercury is so close to the Sun, it was hard for scientists to get a spaceship into orbit around Mercury. If a spacecraft was sent directly to the planet it would arrive too fast. Scientists created the spacecraft Messenger and used other planets’ gravity to slow the ship down before it reached Mercury. The ship also flew past Mercury three times to get to the right speed to achieve orbit.
Q: What was the purpose of the Messenger mission?
A: The goal was to map Mercury’s surface.
Q: How did the scientists feel about the first picture that came in from Mercury? Do you think the seven years of waiting was worth it?
A: The scientists were amazed. Student responses will vary.
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