|
 |
| LAUNCH DATE: |
27-Sep-2003 23:14 UT
|
| MISSION END: | 05:42:21.759 UT, 3 September 2006 |
| LAUNCH VEHICLE: | Ariane-5 |
| LAUNCH MASS: | 367 kg |
| MISSION PHASE: |
Archive |
|
Transfer orbit from Earth to Moon, then polar elliptical orbit around Moon for science operations. |
Testing and proving of an ion drive and miniaturised instruments, along with investigations of lunar geochemistry and a search for ice at the south lunar pole. |
|
SMART-1 was used to test solar electric propulsion and other deep-space technologies, while performing scientific observations of the Moon. Among the scientific investigations, mission data will help to provide answers to questions about the origin of the Moon and to search for ice in the craters at the Moon's south pole. The mission ended on 3 September 2006 when the spacecraft, in a planned manoeuvre, impacted the lunar surface in the Lacus Excellentiae region. |
|
