Venus Exploration and Characteristics

The Magellan spacecraft, after a 15-month journey, will enter Venus' orbit on August 10th. A solid rocket motor will slow it down for orbit insertion. Initial testing and orbit adjustments will occur in the first 20 days. Magellan will map Venus using synthetic aperture radar (SAR) for 243 Earth days, providing unprecedented surface resolution. It will orbit Venus every three hours and nine minutes, with a 37-minute data collection period. Venus, similar in size and mass to Earth, may offer insights into our planet.

When will the Magellan spacecraft enter orbit around Venus?

• August 10th

• October 5th

• September 1st

• July 15th

What will happen to the Magellan spacecraft as it dips behind Venus?

• It will speed up

• It will slow down

• It will stop

• It will change direction

How long will Magellan be tested in orbit before starting its radar mapping?

• 25 days

• 20 days

• 15 days

• 10 days

What is the duration of one Venus day in Earth days?

• 90 days

• 180 days

• 243 days

• 365 days

How often will Magellan orbit Venus?

• Every 5 hours

• Every 4 hours

• Every 3 hours and 9 minutes

• Every 2 hours

Why is Venus considered important for understanding Earth?

• It has similar size and mass

• It has similar weather patterns

• It has similar water bodies

• It has a similar atmosphere