Mission Cliffhanger On Venus

The video discusses the Akatsuki probe's mission to Venus, highlighting its challenges and objectives. Initially launched by JAXA in 2010, Akatsuki failed to enter Venus's orbit due to engine failure. A Plan B was devised, involving a long engine burn to correct its trajectory. The probe aims to study Venus's climate, map its surface, and detect volcanic activity. The video also mentions a celestial event on December 7th, where Venus and the Moon will appear close together in the sky. Viewers are encouraged to support SciShow Space through Patreon.

What makes studying Venus particularly challenging for space probes?

• Its distance from Earth

• Its thick clouds and high temperatures

• Its rapid rotation

• Its lack of atmosphere

Why did Akatsuki's first attempt to orbit Venus fail?

• The main engine failed after three minutes

• The probe was captured by the Sun's gravity

• The probe was hit by a meteor

• The probe ran out of fuel

What was JAXA's Plan B for Akatsuki after the initial failure?

• Launch a new probe

• Use secondary engines for a long burn

• Abandon the mission

• Wait for another planetary alignment

What is one of the main scientific goals of the Akatsuki mission?

• To search for life on Venus

• To find water on Venus

• To map Venus's surface using infrared light

• To study the rings of Venus

What celestial event involving Venus and the Moon is mentioned in the video?

• A solar eclipse

• A lunar eclipse

• A conjunction

• A meteor shower