SMART-1: Exploring the Moon

The video discusses the European Space Agency's mission, SMART One, which was launched to study the Moon. It traveled to a geosynchronous orbit with two communication satellites, reducing launch costs. After separating from its booster, it deployed solar panels to power its journey to the Moon. The mission aimed to test the reliability of its ion thruster, which extended its orbit to be captured by the Moon's gravity. SMART One carried instruments to map the Moon's surface and analyze its composition, providing insights into its formation. The mission concluded with a planned impact on the Moon's surface.

How did SMART One contribute to our understanding of the moon's formation?

What was the final action taken by SMART One before it crashed onto the moon's surface?