Mercury and Venus Flashcard

Front

What was the first spacecraft to visit Mercury and map just over half of its surface?

Back

Mariner

Front

How many Earth days are in one year on Mercury?

Back

88

Front

Was MESSENGER the first space probe sent to Mercury to map its surface?

Back

False

Front

What type of planet is Venus?

Back

Rocky/Terrestrial

Front

Why can't astronomers directly study the surface of Venus?

Back

The surface is permanently obscured by thick clouds.

Front

What is the average surface temperature of Venus?

Back

About 467 degrees Celsius (872 degrees Fahrenheit).

Front

What is the primary component of Venus's atmosphere?

Back

Carbon dioxide.

Front

What is the significance of the Mariner spacecraft in space exploration?

Back

It was the first to provide detailed images of Mercury's surface.

Front

How does the rotation period of Mercury compare to its revolution period?

Back

Mercury has a very slow rotation period of about 59 Earth days, while it takes 88 Earth days to complete one revolution around the Sun.

Front

What are the main geological features found on Mercury?

Back

Impact craters, cliffs (scarps), and smooth plains.