Magellan is a scientific spacecraft whose mission is to map the
surface of Venus so that questions about the details of Venusian geology can be answered. To map Venus' surface, Magellan is using an innovative method of radar mapping, called synthetic aperture radar (SAR). After being launched from the Space Shuttle Atlantis on May 4, 1989, Magellan maneuvered into orbit around Venus on August 10, 1990. After some initial computer glitches were solved, Magellan began gathering radar imaging, altimetry, and radiometry data as it orbits the planet every 3.15 hours. By the end of Magellan's mission, 70 to 90 percent of the Venusian surface will be mapped at high resolutions that vary between 250 to 600 meters. Also, to help learn about the planet's interior, the slight changes in Magellan's orbital motion, due to changes in the gravity field, are being precisely measured.
Sunday, 01-Aug-2004 00:36:47 CDT
CSR/TSGC Team Web
