Exploring Venus: The Venus Express Probe Mission

The Venus Express probe is set to launch soon to study Venus, our closest planetary neighbor. Despite its proximity, Venus's dense atmosphere and high temperatures pose challenges. The probe, carrying seven instruments, is adapted from the Mars Express design. It will travel for 153 days, then enter a polar orbit around Venus for 500 days, sending back data. The mission is controlled from Darmstadt, with launch from Baikonur using a Soyuz frigate. The mission aims to provide detailed insights into Venus's atmosphere, plasma, and surface.

What is the primary purpose of the Venus Express probe?

How long will the trip to Venus take for the Venus Express?

What adaptations were made to the Venus Express spacecraft compared to the Mars Express design?

Describe the process the Venus Express probe will undergo upon arrival at Venus.

What is the significance of the Venus Express remaining in a polar orbit for around 500 days?